News March, 2013

Friday- March 29th, 2013 “Good Friday”

NEWS
--Listen to the Good Friday Service from Living Hope Assembly of God Church live at noon today on AM960 KLTF and streamed online at www.fallsradio.com. Also; a reminder that the offices of Little Falls Radio will close at noon today for Good Friday.

--Minnesota Department of Transportation released Wednesday their road construction projects for 2013 costing a total of $1.1-billion dollars. The biggest project in central Minnesota will be Interstate 94 near St. Cloud which already began with continued lane closures as workers prepare to surface the road Mondays through Saturdays from sunrise to sunset. Other projects include improvements at Highway 371 in Nisswa, Highway 210 roadwork from Baxter to Pillager in June and July, most of this project will be done at night with lane closures on 210 and traffic delays of up to 15 minutes. Another project will be Highway 169 near Garrison and also Highway 169 from Milaca to Onamia starting in April. Other projects include Highway 24 in Clearwater and Interstate 94 with Highway 29 in Alexandria. Motorists in areas of all these projects should expect lane closures or flaggers and pilot cars working to safely maneuver traffic through the road work areas.

--Little Falls Police in the past days responded to a burglary report on 2nd Street Southeast, and a garage being broken into on 8th Street Northwest. If you notice suspicious activity in your area, don’t hesitate to contact law enforcement to your area.

--Morrison County Sheriff Michel Wetzel appeared on KLTF Party Line this week. He spoke on continued caution when cleaning roofs and sheds of snow cover, if you have heavily snow covered fire hydrants or intersections that causes poor visibility to contact public works in your city. Be mindful of scams and contact the sheriff’s office if you have received an e-mail, mailing or phone call that sounded too good to be true or very suspicious, and NEVER release public information like, your social security number, banking or medicare information as they can be used to drain bank accounts or cause many other issues. Best to always hang up on these type of conversations and notify law enforcement of them before it is too late for you or someone else who may be scammed. Any questions contact the sheriff’s office at 320-632-9233.

--A jury trial has been set for Latisha Townley, the 23-year-old who was renting a home in Merrifield with her mother that was lost to fire on January 30th. Criminal reports stated that the two were residing in a hotel on February 2nd when staff used a key card to open the door which was locked by a chain. During a search found in Townley’s jacket was drug paraphernalia, and items that tested positive for methamphetamine. Townley also had prior felony convictions for a controlled substance and an outstanding warrant for her arrest. The judge this week scheduled a jury trial on April 29th on charges of drug possession and storing meth paraphernalia in the presence of a child. Townley’s daughter was sleeping in a bathtub inside the hotel room at the time of Townley’s arrest.

--Senator Al Franken is already looking ahead to 2014. Reports state that the Senator has hired a new campaign manager and stated he is looking forward to the future. Many have speculated that Franken will seek re-election in 2014 after winning the highly contested election back in 2008 over Norm Coleman that ended up in the courts to decide. Many have also speculated on who the Republican candidate for the Senator will be next year, with Congresswoman Michele Bachmann from the 6th District is on that short list of candidates.

--The teenager accused of causing a man's death last year after one punch in a St. Cloud alley is scheduled to stand trial August 20th. 17-year old Jesse Jean Smithers, was in court again Thursday for a pretrial hearing. He has been certified to stand trial as an adult to face charges of second-degree murder and first-degree manslaughter. Smithers is accused of punching Colton Gleason in September while Gleason was walking in a south St. Cloud alley. Gleason hit his head on the ground and was unconscious when he was taken to St. Cloud Hospital. He regained consciousness there, but he later died from his injuries. Smithers has denied having anything to do with the incident that led to Gleason's death and has said he didn't know who did.

--The Benton County Sheriff’s office has updated the circumstances about a collision that killed 78-year-old Carol Theis of Pierz Tuesday. The crash happened at 7:43am at the intersection of Benton County roads 12 and 78. Theis was driving south on County Road 78 when she drove through a stop sign at County Road 12, according to a report by the Benton County Sheriff’s Office. Theis then crossed the path of a semi, which was traveling west on County Road 12. The sheriff’s office initially reported that Theis had stopped at the stop sign and then pulled out in front of the truck but updated the details after interviews with additional witnesses.

--The man initially arrested in the killing of Cold Spring/Richmond Police Officer Tom Decker and later released without being charged has pleaded guilty to stalking his ex-girlfriend in Wright County. 34-year-old Ryan Larson had been accused of a pattern of stalking that including calling his ex-girlfriends employer and trying to get her fired. Larson will be sentenced on May 7th.

SPORTS
NCAA= Gophers take on Yale in NCAA Hockey Tournament today, a win has them back in action Saturday against either North Dakota and Niagara who also play today. Denver and Wisconsin play today with the winners playing on Saturday. St. Cloud State opens the NCAA tournament on Saturday against Notre Dame followed by Miami (Ohio) against MSU-Mankato with the winners playing on Sunday. The Frozen Four begins on April 11th in Pittsburgh.
HANOWSKI= Former Little Falls graduate and current St. Cloud State Hockey player Ben Hanowski had his National Hockey League rights traded away Wednesday from Pittsburgh to Calgary. The 22-year-old was a third round pick for the Penguins in 2009 in the NHL Draft. Pittsburgh sent Hanowski’s rights along with another player Kenneth Agostino and a draft pick to Calgary for Jerome Iginla.
TWINS= hear Twins baseball today at noon and Saturday at 12:30pm as they finish up spring training on Q92 WYRQ.

“Whiskey Tango” tonight, “BLT” Saturday at West Side Bar

Thursday- March 28th, 2013

NEWS
--The Kinship of Morrison County held their 14th annual Soup and Chili Cookoff Tuesday night. The judge’s choices were Chicken Fajita Chili from the Royal 1st, Lora Lee Family Chili from Morrison County HRA 2nd, Classic Chili from Perkins 3rd and people’s choice for chili went to Zylka’s Red Bull Bar. For soup the top finishers were spicy chicken and black bean soup from St. Gabriel’s Hospital 1st, seafood chowder from Old Creamery Café 2nd, and Chicken Florentine from Cabin Fever 3rd, who was also the winner of the people’s choice award. The traveling trophy for best theme went to Zylka’s Red Bull with a country theme for decorations and costumes.

--On Monday agents of the Central Minnesota Violent Offender Task Force along with members of the Cass County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant at 6296 Sarah Dr. SW. in Motley. There agents seized approximately ½ ounce of suspected methamphetamine along with firearms, and other items related to the distribution of controlled substances. 46-year old Donnel Kist was placed under arrest for probable cause possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute and restricted individual possessing a firearm. The matter has been forwarded to the Cass County attorney’s Office for formal charges.

--Area unemployment rates have been released and Morrison County was at 9.6% in February which was down from 10.6% in January but the same as Feb. 2012. Here is how other area counties measured up: Aitken 9.3%, Benton 7.4%, Cass 10.9%, Crow Wing 9.1%, Mille Lacs 10.4%, Sherburne 7.3%, Stearns 6.4%, Todd 7.5%, Wadena 9.2%. Brainerd was at 13.9% and St. Cloud at 6% unemployment.

--Little Falls police arrested a 26-year-old man Saturday afternoon for allegedly assaulting a female acquaintance. On Sunday night around midnight, police arrested a 31-year-old man for disorderly conduct, the suspect also kicked at the squad car windows while being brought to DETOX. Charges are pending in both cases through the Morrison County Attorney’s office.

--Most homeowners may now file online for their property tax refund through the Minnesota Department of Revenue’s website for free. This new free e-filing option is expected to save to the state more than $400,000 a biennium. There is some criteria that has to be followed to file online like homeowners must be living at the home and not renting or using it as a business, electing direct deposit for your refund and filing a refund for 2012 property taxes or later. When filing online the website is www.revenue.state.mn.us then type in the keyword “homeowner” in the search box.

--Governor Mark Dayton defended his plan to increase income taxes on wealthy Minnesotans as necessary to boost funding for education and balance the state’s budget deficit during a town hall meeting with St. Cloud-area residents Tuesday night. About 200 attended the meeting with Dayton at St. Cloud City Hall, which was part of a statewide tour the governor is taking this week during the Legislature’s spring break. Dayton received many questions on why the wealthy pay so little in taxes or the issue with the tax increases, and also the issue of gun rights. Dayton was given thanks on withdrawing the recent sales tax to certain transactions not currently taxed like clothing and automotive repairs, while others noted concerns on small business and property rate increases.

--Get news and weather 24/7 at www.fallsradio.com also info on HGL Show, Community Events and search and like LF Radio on Facebook.

--The Pierz Police Department is asking for the public’s help to identify a suspect who gained entry to Holy Trinity Catholic School in Pierz by means of forced entry February 26th around 8:30pm while Confirmation Mass was in progress at St. Joseph’s Church. The suspect was wearing a white ski mask, dark-colored wind breaker pants with a large light color stripe down the middle of each leg, a dark color pullover coat with a light color zipper, and a pair of brown and black work boots or possible snow boots. Suspect is described as having a medium build and between 5-feet, 10-inches to 6-feet tall. Anyone with any information on the party’s identity or information about this crime is asked to contact Officer Hasten Warnberg with the Pierz Police Department at (320) 468-0299.

--The United States Postal Service will hold a meeting next Tuesday night at the Scandia Valley Town Hall to discuss the future options for the Cushing Post Office. A survey was sent to those with Cushing addresses and the results of those returned will be discussed. Questions will be answered by the postal employees present. While the survey results will be shared, the Postal Service will not make a final decision regarding the Cushing office until after the public meeting. This allows the Postal Service to obtain all community input and opinions before making a final decision. The survey included four options for Cushing residents to choose from. They include: Keeping the office open, based on actual office workload. Conducting a discontinuance study for the Cushing office and offer roadside mailbox delivery, provided by a rural carrier or conducting a discontinuance study for the office and finding an alternative location operated by a contractor, usually a local business or conducting a discontinuance study for the office and provide post office box service via another nearby post office. The meeting is scheduled to begin at 5:30pm next Tuesday at the Scandia Valley Town Hall.

--The Otter Tail County Sheriff says 14 cars of a train carrying crude oil derailed and spilled some of its load near Parkers Prairie Wednesday morning when it lost air pressure and went into emergency braking mode. When the train came to a stop 14 cars derailed. Some were entirely off the tracks. Authorities say the crude oil spill was contained to a relatively small area. No one was hurt.

SPORTS
TWINS= Twins wrap up spring training with a 6pm game today, noon Friday and 12:30 Saturday in Florida. They are off Easter Sunday, then the regular season starts on Monday with a 2:40pm pregame against Detroit, hear all the games on Q92 WYRQ.

TODAY IN HISTORY
IN 1797= Nathaniel Briggs patented the first washing machine.
IN 1985= the Cosby Show became the first prime-time TV show to defeat the Oscar’s on the same night for ratings.

“Whiskey Tango” Friday, “BLT” Saturday play at the West Side Bar

Wednesday- March 27th, 2013

NEWS
--A Pierz woman was killed Tuesday after the car she was driving pulled out in front of a semi in Benton County. The crash happened at 7:43am at the intersection of Benton County roads 12 and 78. 79-year old Carol Theis was pronounced dead at the scene. The semi was carrying a load of corn that spilled onto the road, closing the road to traffic. The crash also damaged power lines in the area causing a power outage. The driver of the semi, 65-year old Dale Scholl of Royalton was treated at the scene for serious injuries and taken to St. Cloud Hospital. Scholl was listed in stable condition late Tuesday morning. The crash happened when Theis was driving south on County Road 78 when she stopped at the stop sign at County Road 12. Initial investigation showed Theis then pulled out in front of the semi, which was traveling west on County Road 12. Both vehicles came to rest in the yard of a residence at the southwest corner of the intersection. The accident remains under investigation.

--The Pierz City Council met Monday night. The 2012 audit presentation was given. The city is closer to being debt free, though they will add an additional cost with the Robert Park Avenue project this summer which was discussed. That project this summer will mark the only debt the city will have that does not have some sort of revenue tied to it. The Robert Park Avenue Project is out for bids and the bid opening will be at 10:00am on April 9th at Pierz City Hall. Personnel policy discussed at a previous work session was brought up at the meeting but no changes have yet been made. Those policies will be discussed at a work session April 11th at 5:30pm. On April 8th at 6:30pm there will be a public hearing on an animal ordinance amendment. Presently, residents of Pierz can apply for a dog license at any time once a year. The city wants to change that to the same day each year so it is easier to manage and send out reminders.

--Todd County investigated an intruder leaving the Clarissa Drug Store around 6am Monday. The Sheriff’s Office stated they got a call of an burglar alarm going off at the store and then moments later a witness called police saying they noticed a suspicious person leaving the drug store. Deputies said the suspect had shattered the glass on the front door and that prescription medications had been stolen. Officers were able to locate the suspect, identified as 20-year-old Christopher Stone of rural Browerville, took him to jail where he is awaiting formal charges through the attorney’s office.

--Todd County was informed of a person with a southern accent calling and telling senior citizens that he was from Georgia and that the senior citizen was entitled to a health card in the mail and for accepting the card they would be forwarded money into their checking and or banking accounts and wanted the homeowner to provide personal banking information. This is a reported SCAM and the sheriff’s office is reminding residents to NOT give out personal information of any kind over the phone if you are unsure where the call is coming from and if YOU did not initiate the contact.

--Xcel Energy has reduced its proposed Minnesota electric rate increase. The Minneapolis-based utility said Monday it lowered its proposed rate increase to 8.2 percent. Xcel proposed a rate hike of 10.7 percent in November. Xcel Energy cites changed circumstances since its original request. The revised proposals reduce the utility’s requested rate increase to about $220 down from $285 million.

--Vendors can still sign up for the 2013 Home Garden and Leisure Show April 5th and 6th in Little Falls. For information call 632-2992.

--A St. Cloud man was arrested late Monday after his wife told police that he hit her with the handle of a knife. Police were called at about 11:00pm Monday to the 1300 block of Sixth Street North and arrested 46-year old Bryan Kelvin Pritchett. A woman told police that he choked her and hit her with the handle of a knife. She was able to get away from him and call police. She had a cut to her head that didn’t appear to require stitches. Police believe that Pritchett was “severely intoxicated” during the incident. He was taken to Stearns County Jail and booked for investigation of second-degree assault, domestic assault by strangulation, interference with a 911 call and gross misdemeanor domestic assault because of a prior conviction.

--The operators of Minnesota USDA-inspected meat packing plants are breathing a sigh of relief after Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says Congress took action that allows him to transfer money from one account to another so inspectors will stay on the job. He says that removes at least one element of uncertainty in an uncertain marketplace for livestock producers.

--Past research by the American Cancer Society has led to several breakthroughs, such as finding the links that cigarettes and obesity have to cancer. Now, Minnesotans have an opportunity to sign up for another major study. Cancer Prevention Study-3 is intended to help identify new risk factors and improve understanding of how cancer develops. The study will help scientists better understand the genetic, environmental and lifestyle factors that can cause or prevent cancer. Enrollment in the Twin Ports Area is the first week of April while in central Minnesota and around the Twin Cities Metro, enrollment will begin around mid-June.

--The Office of Congressional Ethics is investigating alleged finance violations in Michele Bachmann’s failed presidential campaign last year. Campaign officials say they have been meeting with OCE investigators since last year, and feel that the board will find nothing improper took place. The campaign has been accused of improperly transferring funds and making under the table payments. Iowa Campaign Chairman State Senator Kent Sorenson has also been implicated. Bachmann ended her presidential campaign for president after a last place finish in the 2012 Iowa Caucus.

--A missing Fertile woman was found dead in her car Sunday in rural Polk County. The sheriff’s office received a missing person report Friday for 41-year-old Wanda Lieser. An autopsy is being done to determine the exact cause of death.

BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENT
--Joey and Katie Masog of Little Falls, girl born March 25th
--John and Alicia Gunther of Pierz, a girl born March 25th.

NEWS
--The Morrison County Commissioners meet today at 9am at the government center boardroom. The Pierz Commercial Club has asked that the County Board hold off on reviewing its application for Freedom Fest, set for July 6th. The item has been taken off this morning’s agenda. Items still on the agenda include a proclamation on the Morrison County Volunteer Network, reports from the sheriff, public works, public health, extension office and planning and zoning.

--The St. Cloud Airport Control Tower will close down April 21st. The closure is directly related to federal sequestration cuts that will trigger the closure of the tower and 148 others across the country. The tower closures will be done in three groups. The first group on April 7th, followed by April 21st where official shutdown operations will then proceed, ending with a full closure completed by May 1st.

--A broadside crash on Highway 169 Saturday killed a Pequot Lakes man. The crash occurred around 8:00am in Aitkin County at an intersection where reportedly 74-year-old Roger Langenbau ran a stop sign and was struck by 66-year-old Edward Cirkl Jr. of Minneapolis. Langenbau died at the scene. His passenger, 69-year-old Jerry Swenson of Pequot Lakes suffered serious injuries and was taken to Hennepin County Medical Center in Minneapolis and last listed in fair condition. Cirkl was treated at the Aitkin hospital, his passenger, 65-year-old Janell Cirkl was taken to North Memorial in Robbinsdale with serious but non-life threatening injuries.

--Brainerd firefighters Sunday had to chisel through ice to free a resident from her mobile home. Just before 8:00am they got a call of a gas leak on Browns Lane. When they arrived they found the front entrance of the mobile home in question was frozen shut from the melting of snow Saturday and refreezing overnight. There was an odor of propane that was evident coming from the mobile-home. After they chiseled through the ice and got the door open the woman inside complained of headaches but was not hospitalized. Firefighters shut off the gas and ventilated the home.

--A meeting regarding access to U.S. Highway 10 through Watab Township will be at 7pm Tuesday at the Watab Town Hall. State Representative James Newberger, other elected officials and Claudia Dumont from the Minnesota Department of Transportation will meet with business owners and residents. The goal is to plan for access to the highway after the stoplights are removed in Rice with the construction of the interchange at County Road 2 and Highway 10.

--Authorities identified the 20-year-old man injured Friday night in an accident where the vehicle ended up in Getchell Creek in Spring Hill Township. The driver was unconscious and needed to be extricated from the vehicle. The man is Nicholas Wagner of Lesueur. Wagner was taken to St. Cloud Hospital for treatment of injuries.

--Two Sauk Rapids police officers and a sergeant received life-saving awards at last nights Sauk Rapids City Council meeting. Officers Bryan Novak and Dave Rosenkrans and Sgt. Tom Roy helped revive a man who had collapsed and stopped breathing. They used CPR and a defibrillator to get the man’s heart started again. Rosenkrans was the first to arrive August 6th at a house to find Lynn Morgan not breathing and with no pulse. Novak and Roy arrived a few minutes later and helped with CPR while waiting for paramedics to arrive. The officers used an automated external defibrillator to help start Morgan’s heart. Morgan has fully recovered and later sent a letter to the department thanking the officers for their efforts.

--A recent study shows Central Lakes College contributes $95 million to the regional economy and adds 1,252 jobs between the Staples and Brainerd campuses. The study was conducted by Wilder Research, a nationally recognized source of data used by state and local planners, policy makers and service providers. The study also concluded that CLC generates about $5 million in tax revenues for state and local government. The study further estimated the value of the increase in productivity that the 602 degrees/diplomas awarded by CLC in 2011 will yield throughout the careers of the graduates. Making assumptions for a 40-year work life and wages, the education received by these graduates are expected to yield additional state income of $56 million. On a statewide level, the study shows seven state universities and 24 community and technical colleges that are part of the Minnesota State Colleges and Universities System (MnSCU): Generate an annual economic impact of $8.3 billion (direct impact of $5 billion and indirect impact in other industries of $3.3 billion); Represent a return of $13.53 for each $1 of state appropriation; Generate an estimated 80,856 jobs in the state (56,876 direct jobs and 23,979 additional indirect jobs; Generate about $490 million in tax revenues. In addition to the impact outlined above, the enhanced productivity of MnSCU graduates across the state is equivalent to $4.7 billion of future value created each year.

--The 14th Annual Kinship Soup and Chili Cookoff for Kids is 5:00-7:00pm tonight at the Falls Ballroom. The event is a fundraiser for Kinship. For more information call Aaron at 632-8806.

SPORTS
TUBBY= The University of Minnesota reportedly has fired coach Tubby Smith, deciding to buy out the remaining four years of his contract just one day after the Gophers' lost in the NCAA tournament's Round of 32 to Florida. The Gophers had signed Smith to a three-year extension through the 2016-17 season in July. Smith currently makes close to $2 million annually. The 11th-seeded Gophers were 21-13 and 8-10 in the Big Ten this past season.
NCAA= The WCHA will be well represented in the NCAA Hockey tournament that begins Friday for some and Saturday for others. St. Cloud State, Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota, Denver and MSU Mankato all received bids to the NCAA Men’s Hockey Tournament beginning later this week and concluding April 11th and 13th.

Vendors can still get signed up for the Home Garden Leisure by contacting Chris today at 320-632-2992. Full details on HGL Show April 5th and 6th at fallsradio.com then HGL Show

“Whiskey Tango” Friday, BLT performs Saturday at West Side Bar

Monday- March 25th, 2013

NEWS
--The 3rd Annual Day of Caring is May 1st and registrations are being accepted now for the event. Registration forms are available at a number of organizations, senior centers and Little Falls Radio. You can also call for a registration by contacting Mary Kenna at 320-631-5677. The deadline to sign up is April 12th. The Day of Caring will take place 9am to 11am on Wednesday, May 1st. The homeowner must be present at their residence on that day. Any questions either contact Kenna or contact Tim Bjorge at Little Falls Community High School at 616-2200.

--Wausau Paper Thursday signed a letter of intent to sell its Wisconsin specialty paper mills but reports state the Brainerd mill is not in the deal. The transaction includes assets of the Rhinelander and Mosinee mills for a cash purchase of $130-million dollars to KPS in New York which is a private equity firm that has experience in the paper industry. Wausau announced this year that they will be shutting down the Brainerd plant later this spring. The transaction for the Wisconsin plants will be finalized this summer.

--Morrison County Sheriff’s deputies in the past week have responded to suspicious activity calls in Cushing and Pierz and also a report of a motorcycle theft in Upsala.

--The Little Falls Community Middle School Drama Department will perform the musical Willy Wonka Kids at 7pm on March 28th in the gymnasium at the middle school. 42 actors will bring the story of Willy Wonka to life. The cost is $2 but if you bring an item for the food shelf than the cost is $1 for the show on Thursday night.

--8th District Congressman Rick Nolan announced locations for his mobile offices across the area. Staff of Rick Nolan will be at the Carnegie Library in Little Falls 10:30am Tuesday, Motley City Hall on April 10th at 1pm, Pillager City Hall at 3pm on April 10th. There are also mobile offices scheduled in April at Wadena, Walker, Hackensack, Pine River, East Gull Lake, Garrison and Ironton.

--Benton County will be testing its new emergency notification system at 9:00am Tuesday, 1:00pm Wednesday and 6:00pm Thursday. The message will notify residents that it is a test of the system to prepare for the upcoming severe weather season. Residents who do not receive any of the calls or want to add contact numbers should go to the county website. The current numbers listed for the emergency test is mostly landlines in Benton County. There are some cell-phone numbers also on the list. Residents can register their cell-phone, e-mail address or text numbers for additional ways to be contacted. The website for more information is www.co.benton.mn.us.

--Three people were injured in a broadside collision at an uncontrolled intersection Thursday night. The crash occurred about 7:00pm at the intersection of Seventh Street and Midland Avenue. A vehicle driven by 26-year old Lynn Brutger of Albany was traveling west on Midland Avenue while a vehicle driven by 42-year old Kim Maciejewski of Avon was traveling south on Seventh Street. At the intersection, Maciejewski’s vehicle struck the passenger’s side of Brutger’s vehicle. Both drivers and a 14-year-old girl who was riding with Maciejewski, were injured. All were taken to Albany Hospital to be treated for injuries that were not life-threatening. All occupants were wearing seat belts at the time of the incident.

--Congratulations to two local lottery winners. William Brennan of Pierz won $10,000 on March 14th playing a scratch-off game. Mary Zetah of Motley claimed a $5,000 prize on March 20th.

--The 2013 Morrison County Dairy Princesses were crowned Saturday night in Little Falls. They are Carly Czech of Little Falls, Rochelle Herzog of Randall, Sara Roerick of Upsala and Tracy Herzog of Upsala, Tracy was also named Miss Congeniality. The four will represent the Dairy Industry in Morrison County over the next year will take part in the May event where 12 finalists from around the state will vie for Princess Kay of Milky Way in August of this year.

--Congratulations to Aaron Hanson of Little Falls Community Middle School who will compete at the State Geography Bee on April 5th at St. Cloud State University. Hanson beat out 550 other Little Falls students who tried out this year for the top position at the middle school. This is the third trip to the state bee for Hanson. If he wins he would go to Washington D.C. for the National Geographic Bee May 20-22nd. One student from each of the 50 United States will compete.

--Little Falls Police last week responded to a theft report on Circle Drive, a fire on Fifth Street Southwest Wednesday afternoon and an assault report at St. Gabriel’s Hospital last Wednesday where a patient had been shot in the face with a flare gun.

--A 19-year-old Annandale man was found dead on Whispering Pines Golf Course early Friday in what investigators are calling a snowmobile accident. 19-year-old, Cody Richard LaFave, left to go snowmobiling about 4pm Thursday and was reported missing around 9:50am Friday morning. Before a search began, family members found the man dead on the Whispering Pines Golf Course in Corinna Township. The cause of the accident remains under investigation.

--Stearns County reported one person seriously injured from an accident Friday night in Spring Hill Township near St. Martin. The accident around 10:30pm occurred on County Road 12 when the vehicle ended up in Getchell Creek. The driver was unconscious and had to be extricated by St. Martin firefighters where he was listed in serious condition at St. Cloud Hospital. The 20-year-old’s name from Melrose has not been released.

DEATH NOTICES
--Sister Mary Rachel (Helen) Zenzen, age 93 of St. Francis Convent

NEWS
--Congratulations to the Upsala Boys Basketball team who won in the Class A State Quarterfinal matchup over Battle Lake yesterday afternoon 71-60. With the win the Cardinals now play in the State Semifinals this afternoon at 2:00pm. Because of the game there will be no school in Upsala today. If the Cardinals win today they will play in the State Championship tomorrow at noon and if the Cardinals lose today they will still play tomorrow in the 3rd place game starting at 10:00am. Listen to both today and tomorrows Upsala boy’s basketball games on 92.1 WYRQ. Congratulations on yesterdays win Upsala!

--The Randall City council met on Wednesday night. At the meeting Mayor Ritters, Councilman Carter and Councilman Turner were sworn in to their new terms in office. Lori Mueller of Vision Randall’s Quality of Life task force gave an update on the Disc Golf course project, presented a budget and also submitted a donation request from the city. The donation request was approved for $2,500. They are requesting donations from other area organizations. The 2012 Financial Audit was presented and accepted. The City Manager and Administrative Assistant were given the authority to perform Electronic Fund Transfers for the city in the future. Randall will be a recipient of a portion of a donation being given by the Little Falls Convention and Visitor’s Bureau for the purchase of bike racks. The Randall Area Business Group is working on a design and would like the rack(s) to be placed on mainstreet. The Randall council also approved their annual donations to both the Darling/Green Prairie Park and the Morrison County Ag Society.

--Morrison County has been chosen to receive $2,968 in National Board Reallocation funds to supplement emergency food and shelter programs in the county. The selection was made by a National Board that is chaired by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Federal Emergency Management Agency and consists of representatives from American Red Cross; Catholic Charities, USA; National Council of the Churches of Christ in the U.S.A.; The Salvation Army; United Jewish Communities and, United Way of America. The Local Board was charged to distribute funds appropriated by Congress to help expand the capacity of food and shelter programs in high-need areas around the country. A Local Board made up of representatives from County Government, Catholic Charities, American Red Cross, The Salvation Army, the Ministerial Association, and the United Way will determine how the funds awarded to Morrison County are to be distributed among the programs run by local service agencies in the area. The Local Board is responsible for recommending agencies to receive these funds made available through the ARRA. Morrison County has distributed Emergency Food and Shelter funds previously with the Morrison County Food Shelf, the Motley Area Food Shelf, and the Morrison County Chaplaincy Program. Public or private voluntary agencies interested in applying for Emergency Food and Shelter Program funds must contact Deb Gruber through the Morrison County United Way. The deadline for applications to be received is April 3, 2013.

--The Morrison County Dairy Princess Coronation is Saturday night at the Falls Ballroom at 8pm. Four of the 7 candidates will be chosen as Dairy Princesses to represent the Dairy Industry in Morrison County.

--The 25th Annual AM960 KLTF Home Garden and Leisure Show will be April 5th, 3-9pm and April 6th 9am-3pm at the Exchange Arena in Little Falls. A list of vendors can be viewed at www.fallsradio.com.

--Court dates have been set for 2 men in a chase that happened in Morrison County on January 6th. 32-year-old Jesse Lee Kirschman of Avon and 32-year-old Eric Makela of Menagha were involved in a pursuit with law enforcement that topped speeds of 100 miles per hour and ended when the vehicle crashed into a fence. Kirschman, who was the driver, is charged with first-degree possession of drugs and fleeing a peace officer, and will be back in court on the charges on April 18th. Makela, the passenger in the vehicle, also faces drug charges and will be back in court on April 1st.

--The Pierz City Council meets Monday night at 7pm at City Hall. Agenda items include the 2012 audit presentation; approval and recap from a previous work session, an update on the Robert/Park Avenue project, set a public hearing a an animal ordinance and hear reports from various city departments.

--High winds and blowing snow is to blame for a number of accidents across central Minnesota Tuesday and Wednesday. Some of the worst conditions this week were found in Todd, Stearns and Morrison Counties due to the snow and wind that started back on Sunday. Area law enforcement reported a string of spinouts in the three counties noted, some of the accidents resulted in minor injuries to the occupants. No serious injuries were reported from the accidents.

--The former nurse at St. Cloud Hospital who siphoned pain medication from patient IV bags was sentenced Wednesday to 2 years in federal prison and ordered to pay $340,000 in restitution. 43-year-old Blake Zenner of Kimball pleaded guilty to fraudulently obtaining a controlled substance. The U.S. District Court Judge sentenced Zenner and order the higher restitution due to the hospitals stays that were need from the affected victims of Zenner.

--Minnesota labor officials say February was another strong month for employment with the state adding 14,500 jobs. Minnesota’s seasonally-adjusted unemployment rate of 5.5 percent in February is unchanged from January. The national rate in February was 7.7 percent unemployment.

BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENT
--Corey and Heather Tabatt of Little Falls, a girl born March 20th.

SPORTS
UPSALA= Upsala defeated Battle Lake yesterday 71-60. The Cardinals play at 2:00pm today against Southwest Minnesota Christian. Listen live on 92.1 WYRQ.
NCAA= Gophers vs. UCLA at Austin tonight in the NCAA men’s basketball tournament, game around 9pm if they win they would play on Sunday likely against the #3 seed Florida.
WCHA= Final Five semi-finals today St. Cloud State vs. Wisconsin at 2pm and the Gophers vs. Colorado College at 7pm, pregame at 6:30 on AM960 KLTF, a Gopher win has them in the championship Saturday at 7pm with a pregame at 6:30 on AM960 KLTF.

Northstar Entertainment tonight, “Contention” Saturday at WS Bar

Thursday- March 21st, 2013

NEWS
--At Tuesday’s Little Falls School Board meeting, the school board voted to make up the previous snow days. There will now be classes on Monday, March 25th, and Friday May 31st. Also there will now be a full day of classes on May 15th instead of an early release day.

--Morrison County is almost last for state counties of the poorest health from the 2013 statistics. Morrison comes in 82nd just before the report of the five poorest counties which are Cass, Mahnomen, Mille Lacs, Traverse and Lake. The five healthiest counties in the state, starting with the most healthy are Carver, followed by Steele, Waseca, Dodge, and Scott. Wright County was 13th, Stearns County was 24th, Sherburne 41st, Crow Wing 50th, Todd 57th, Benton 64th, and Wadena 79th. The survey is conducted by a number of rankings from health care coverage, insurance rates, age of mortality rate, premature death rate, also rates of adult smoking and binge drinking issues or alcohol related deaths.

--The Randall Fire Department responded Tuesday morning to a report of a chimney fire at the Jason and Kimberly Brady home in Enchanted Lakes. Firefighters arrived around 1:20am but they were unable to get near the home due to unplowed roads and had to hike 200 yards with their equipment. The chimney fire had been put out by the time firefighters arrived and there were no injuries. The chimney was checked by the thermal imaging cameras to make sure the fire was completely extinguished. The cause is believed to be a drill bit left in the concrete of the chimney, which got hot and started the interior wall on fire.

--Crow Wing County District Court has denied Risky Business owner Ronald Beattie Jr. of Brainerd an acquittal and new trial following a conviction by a jury for Beattie failing to pay income taxes. Beattie’s motion was that his accountant was incompetent and that he wanted to file and pay his outstanding taxes. He asked for a new trial also on the grounds of insufficient evidence brought forward in the case. The motion was denied. Last month, Beattie was found guilty of 35 counts of willingly evading state taxes.

--The Senate District 9 DFL Central Committee has voted unanimously to provisionally endorse Adrian Welle of Pierz for the Minnesota House Race next year in 2014. Welle lost to current Republican Congressman Ron Kresha in last November’s House race. Provisional endorsements are done in non-election years when the candidate receives 90% of the vote but only good until December 31st of this year. Welle would still have to request formal endorsement from the party in the spring of 2014.

--Todd County responded to a number of accidents Monday night into Tuesday due to icy conditions and blowing snow. One of the accidents near Long Prairie resulted in minor injuries. Hubbard, Wadena and Cass Counties also reported accidents Tuesday due to the cold and windy conditions.

--A west central Minnesota school district has state approval to continue its four-day school week. The Minnesota Department of Education has notified the Atwater-Cosmos-Grove City district its application to continue the flexible school schedule has been approved. The district is required to re-apply for approval every three years after implementing the schedule in 2010. The School Superintendent stated the school saves about $100,000 annually by operating a Tuesday through Friday schedule. That money is used to improve student proficiency in reading, math and other curriculum.

--HGL Show April 5th and 6th at Exchange Arena- for info 632-2992.

--Firefighters from Foley and Sauk Rapids were called to a fire southwest of Foley on Wednesday. The fire was reported at 1:28pm at 1720 Primrose Road Northeast in St. George Township. The home was fully engulfed in flames. After the fire department arrived, the garage also caught fire and was destroyed. A heater used to thaw a frozen water line may have caused the fire according to Pete Skwira, a Benton County deputy. The homeowner was not home at the time of the fire. Authorities report that there are no injuries.

--An estimated 1.3 million Minnesotans will benefit from legislation signed into law Wednesday by Governor Mark Dayton, including nearly 300,000 Minnesotans who are currently uninsured. The bill which establishes a new marketplace where Minnesotans can choose quality, affordable health coverage, will save Minnesota families and businesses an estimated $1 billion in health care costs by 2016. After federal tax credits, individual consumers will see an average 34 percent decrease in premiums for insurance purchased through MNsure, Minnesota’s new federally mandated health insurance exchange. The average family will save $500 annually. Ultimately, one in five Minnesotans will use MNsure to access health coverage and the subsidies and tax credits that come with it.

--As part of his “Meetings with Mark” tour of the state, Governor Mark Dayton will visit St. Cloud City Hall next Tuesday. The conversation will focus on the budget. The conversations will give Minnesotans a chance to weigh in on Dayton’s budget proposals, according to the governor’s website. The meeting is from 6-7:30pm.

SPORTS
HS BBB= Upsala vs. Battle Lake today at 3pm from Minneapolis in the State Tournament quarter-finals live on Q92 WYRQ.
HS BBB= From yesterday other area teams at state tournament; Brainerd was defeated by Apple Valley 81-67, and Sartell lost to De La Salle 70-55. Brainerd and Sartell seasons ended with their losses.
COL BB= The round of 64 teams starts today for the NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament- The Gophers have UCLA Friday night at 9pm.
WCHA= Final Five for the WCHA begins today with 2 games then another 2 for semi-finals on Friday, hear the Gophers semi-final game Friday night at 6:30pm on AM960 KLTF

TODAY IN HISTORY
IN 1871= Henry Stanley began his search for Dr. David Livingstone
IN 1928= Charles Lindbergh presented Medal of Honor for his flight.
IN 1939= Kate Smith recorded God Bless America, the song was highly requested on an album since Smith sang it live last November.
IN 1963= Alcatraz, the federal penitentiary closed.
IN 1980= J.R. Ewing was shot on TV’s Dallas

“North Star Entertainment tonight and Fri “Contention” Sat at WS Bar

Wednesday- March 20th, 2013

NEWS
--Spring officially began at 6:02am this morning with the Vernal Equinox, but Minnesota is still blanketed by a lot of heavy snow. Another snow system is forecasted for the weekend through the heaviest of this system should stay mostly south of the area still bringing the possibility of rain and snow Saturday and Sunday. A reminder again also to clear snow around fire hydrants so firefighters can spot them in an emergency. The heavy snow is blamed for roofs collapsing in the area including a shed at the Paul Neiman residence in Freedhem. Sheriff Michel Wetzel reminds everyone to be extremely careful when removing snow from roof tops.

--The Little Falls City Council met on Monday night. The council approved the number of Arts and Crafts vendors, Antiques and Collectibles vendors, Little Falls Area Chamber of Commerce, and West Side Improvements Association members. The council tabled the issue of minors in the bars for the next meeting on April 1st. Presently, minors must be out of the bars by 7:00pm in Little Falls. Some are pushing to move that time back later to 9:00pm. During the work session a request was made for a donation to support the Darling/Green Prairie Park. The requested funds would support maintenance and the installation of permanent restrooms.

--Two men arrested after a shooting Friday in north St. Cloud were charged Monday with attempted first-degree murder and being felons in possession of a firearm. The shooting sent one man to the hospital with a gunshot to the head from which he is expected to recover from. Investigators haven’t ruled out additional arrests and possible charges against others. The two men each charged Monday with two counts of attempted first-degree murder and being a felon in possession of a firearm are Andre Shyron Kidd, 22, and Benjamin Jonathan Lenoir, 23. Court complaints charging the men accuse them of breaking into a duplex robbed the victim then forced the victim to kneel on the ground with his hands in the air. One suspect hit the victim in the head with a handgun. St. Cloud police officers tracked footprints in the freshly fallen snow to a north home, where police surrounded the residence. Several people eventually came out of the residence and were detained for questioning. Investigators searched the residence and found the victim’s driver’s license, credit cards, money and a loaded .380-caliber handgun partially wrapped in a sock. Investigators also found a spent .380-caliber shell casing and several sets of gloves and ski masks. The investigation continues.

--Minnesota has about 80,000 farms and more than ten percent of jobs in the states are tied to agriculture. Those are some of the facts being highlighted during Minnesota Agriculture Week. Department of Agriculture Commissioner Dave Frederickson says Minnesota ranks fifth or sixth in the nation for agriculture production. Minnesota Agriculture generated 18-and-a-half billion dollars in 2011.

--The Minnesota Department of Public Safety Office of Traffic Safety reported approximately 400 DWI arrests during St. Patrick’s Day weekend (March 16 and 17). This arrest count is preliminary. The State Patrol reported one fatality on Sunday, it is unknown at this time if alcohol was a factor.

--Upsala has a send off pep fest today at 1:25 for the boys team heading to the state tournament in basketball. There will NO school in Upsala on Thursday. The boys take on Battle Lake Thursday at 3pm at Williams Arena, listen to the game live on Q92 WYRQ.

--The 2013 Morrison County Dairy Princesses crowned Saturday 8pm.

--Jacqueline Burns was named the Morrison County Child Care Provider of the Year. She will be given her award during a ceremony at Cabin Fever on Friday, May 3rd. She takes care of six children from ages 1-5 getting the children ready for kindergarten.. Active in the community, Burns is a substitute Sunday School teacher and nursery coordinator at her church, mentors local teen moms, serves on the Teen Moms Ministry Board, volunteers at both the Little Falls Kids’ Day and the Dam Festival and is involved in the Stand Up For Youth Coalition. Burns, her husband Wayne, and they have 4 children.

--The State Patrol responded to an injury accident in Mille Lacs County Monday around 10:30am. 34-year-old Farrah Hines of Brainerd lost control on an icy patch of Highway 169 near 190th Street and struck the ditch rolling the vehicle. Hines and her passenger 48-year-old Tammy Balsimo of Brainerd were both taken to the Princeton Hospital for treatment of injuries.

--A 65-year-old Pequot Lakes man was injured Saturday when he was trapped inside his garage after his roof collapsed from the snow. Lynn Rolfson was taken to Brainerd hospital and treated for non-life threatening injuries.

--Anglers will be allowed to keep fewer walleyes when they fish Mille Lacs Lake this year. Mille Lacs anglers will be able to keep walleyes only between 18 and 20 inches, or longer than 28. All others must be released. The limit is two, with only one longer than 28 inches. Last season all walleye from 17 to 28 inches had to be released. But the state is loosening regulations for northern pike and smallmouth bass on Mille Lacs. The lake’s protected slot for northern will be narrowed to a 33 to 40 inch slot, only one longer than 40. The limit remains three. The smallmouth limit has been raised from one to six. The new protected slot is 17 to 20 inches, with only one longer than 20 inches.

--The Minnesota Department of Commerce still has funds available to help low income families pay their heating bills. The average grant through the Energy Assistance Program is about $500 per household. Commissioner Mike Rothman says applications are down about nine percent so far, but they still expect to reach about 155,000 Minnesotans this winter. Minnesota received 106 million dollars in federal funds in November which has already helped 116 thousand families in the state. Rothman says sequestration could affect future funds for heating assistance.

NATIONAL NEWS
--Eight Marines from a North Carolina unit now have died and several injured in a training accident at the Hawthorne Army Depot in western Nevada Monday night. The cause of the accident is under investigation. The injured were taken to area hospitals for treatment and further evaluation. The identities of those killed were not released pending notification of their families.

NEWS
--The third annual “Day of Caring” in Little Falls is slated for Wednesday, May 1st and the students and staff of Little Falls Community High School (LFCHS) are looking for those who would like their help. The Day of Caring is sponsored by LFCHS, with the help of the Health Communities Collaborative (HCC) and community partners. Senior citizens, homebound individuals and those living in the Little Falls and Randall areas who need assistance completing outdoor household projects are encouraged to apply. The projects must be able to be completed within a three-hour time frame by a team of high school students and adult volunteers. Projects may include window washing for windows on the outside and on a ground floor; raking yards; cleaning up gardens and/or flower beds, or another outdoor project. Homeowners must be at their home while the teams of volunteers work on their project. Those who apply and whose projects are accepted can expect a team of student and adult volunteers to arrive at their home between 9:00am–11:00am on May 1st the “Day of Caring.” To register, complete the registration form in this past weekend’s Morrison County Record (Page 2) or by contacting Mary Kenna at 631-5677 for information. Tim Bjorge of the High School and others will be on Community Events Wednesday at 8:45am on AM960 KLTF and www.fallsradio.com.

--Snow, wind and ice caused a number of accidents over the past four days in central Minnesota. Little Falls Police reported a number of accidents, mostly Friday morning due to snow and ice covered roads, no injuries were reported. Todd County reported at least 4 injury accidents, none were serious; Crow Wing County reported a handful of accidents including an ambulance being struck on Highway 371/210 intersection- no injuries reported; Stearns County reported a 15-year-old from Albany was injured in a snowmobile crash and taken to St. Cloud Hospital for treatment and also a Sartell man injured in a rollover accident after striking a utility pole in St. Joseph Township Sunday afternoon.

--Congresswoman Michele Bachmann spoke about a number of topics at the State Capitol Monday including a push for much needed transportation projects to be done in the 6th District. Bachmann called for expansion of Interstate 94 and upgrades to Highway 10. Also speculation grew over the weekend that Bachmann is considering a run for U.S. Senate in 2014 for the seat currently held by Al Franken. Representative Bachmann stated Sunday in an interview that her first concern is for the constituents of the 6th Congressional District.

--Fire did considerable damage to a home around 4am Saturday in St. Cloud. Firefighters were called to 12th Avenue Southeast. The fire was seen in a 2nd-floor bedroom. A 13-year-old boy found the fire and woke his family to get them out of the house. Firefighters were able to contain the fire mainly to the 2nd story with a damage estimate of over $50,000. Firefighters credited the boy for getting his family out of the house and no injuries were reported.

--Brainerd firefighters were called out in the previous days to a furnace fire on Ashmun Road, a vehicle fire on Oak Street, a crash involving a pickup truck and an ambulance, a chimney fire at Cragun’s and a rollover accident on Highway 371 North on Sunday. In all cases there were no reports of major structure damages and also no reports of any injuries in any of the incidents.

--The annual Home Garden and Leisure Show will be on Friday, April 5th and Saturday, April 6th in Little Falls- for details call 320-632-2992.

--Upsala will have a pep fest sendoff for the boys basketball team on Wednesday at 1:25pm in the high school gym. Upsala will not have school on Thursday and if they win their first round game Upsala will not have school Friday either. Upsala plays Battle Lake at 3:00pm on Thursday at Williams Arena. Listen to the game on 92.1 WYRQ.

--The Little Falls Fire Department responded to a car fire on Saturday. Shortly after 9:00pm 19-firefighters were on hand for 45 minutes battling the car fire on the northbound exit of Riverview Road. The car owned by Bethany Gray of Anoka was a total loss. There were no injuries. Little Falls Fire Chief Mike Nieman reminds residents to try and clear snow from around your fire hydrant. If that is not possible at least be able to tell firefighters approximately where the nearest fire hydrant is located in case of a fire. He also reminds homeowners to make sure vent pipes on the roofs are cleaned out.

--The Walmart Supercenter in Little Falls was closed down temporarily Saturday when the heavy snow on the roof set off the fire alarms. The store closed around 1 or 2pm and opened back up before 8:00pm. The store hired a contractor to take some of the snow off the roof. It was reported that the weight of the snow on the roof caused the alarms to go off.

--The 2013 Morrison County Relay for Life Team Captain Kick Off meeting will take place at 6:00pm tonight in the Ripley Room at St. Gabriel’s Hospital. Anyone interested in forming a team is welcome to attend. This year’s Relay for Life will be held on Friday, July 19th at the Little Falls Community High School Track.

--Kinship of Morrison County is getting ready for their 14th Annual Soup & Chili Cook-off which is scheduled for Tuesday, March 26th at the Falls Ballroom in Little Falls from 5-7 PM. If you would like to donate or need more info on the event call Aaron at 632-8806. Aaron Olson will be on KLTF Thursday morning at 8:45 with more.

--The Little Falls School Board Meeting originally scheduled for Monday night was postponed until 5:00pm tonight at the Morrison County Government Center.

SPORTS
NCAA= The NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament begins tonight with 2 first round games then another 2 games to be played on Wednesday. The round of 64 begins Thursday with 16 games and another 16 Friday including UCLA and Minnesota Friday at 9pm.
HS BBB= Upsala vs. Battle Lake Thursday at 3pm at Williams Arena in Minneapolis in State Tournament quarter-finals- hear it on Q92.
MLB= Twins regular season opener April 1st, hear it on Q92 WYRQ.

North Star Entertainment Thursday and Friday at West Side Bar in LF

Monday- March 18th, 2013

NEWS
--With heavy wet snow piling up across Morrison County, Sheriff Michel Wetzel is urging residents to be extremely cautious while going onto roofs to remove it. Each year, people are seriously injured after slipping and falling off snow and ice covered roofs. Farmers are at increased risk while removing snow from large sheds with fiberglass skylights. “Those panels get brittle over the years and can’t support the weight of a person. In addition it is easy to misjudge where the skylights are located under a blanket of thick snow.” “Just two years ago, prominent Little Falls resident Verd Anez died after falling though a skylight while clearing snow. We never want to see a tragedy like that again.” Please use caution if cleaning your roofs.

--On Thursday, 63-year old Randy Reed of Pierz was sentenced to 60 months in prison following his conviction for Arson in the 1st degree in Morrison County District Court. Reed was found guilty after a four day trial last October. The case stems from Reed setting fire to a house he owned in Pierz on August 24th, 2010. At trial, the State showed that Reed was behind on his $127,000 mortgage and other bills and that Reed had the residence insured for $190,000. The State also had recorded statements by Reed admitting that his tools, most of his possessions, photographs, a pool table and air hockey table had been removed from the house in the months before the fire. Reed admitted he was the last person to leave the house. The Pierz Fire Department, Morrison County Sheriff’s Department, State Fire Marshall, and a fire investigator hired by the state all testified that the home had four separate ignition points in the basement. The firemen and the investigators all noted the odor of gasoline in the basement after the fire was extinguished. Scientific tests confirmed the presence of gasoline. During the trial, Reed claimed he had left a partially filled five gallon gas can on the steps and a spark from the dryer caused the fire. Reed remains free pending an appeal.

--The Little Falls School Board meets at 5pm today at the Morrison County Government Center. Agenda items include presentations from Jerry Lochner on rezoning, hear from High School Principal Tim Bjorge on the Robotics Team and Mentors, Barb Muckenhirn, Director of 21st Century Teaching and Learning, Aaron Sinclair, Activities Director, Assistant High School Principal Mike Olson and Flyer Jams from Lindbergh Elementary Physical Education Staff. The board will also vote on approval of food service recommendations, land lease agreement, approval of snow days recommendations, adjustments to the 2013-2014 school calendar and get an update from the Recreation Task Force. The board will also accept the retirement of Dr. Maxine Strege from the School District.

--Sauk Rapids Mayor Brad Gunderson has been charged with two counts of driving while intoxicated following his arrest in mid-February after driving his vehicle off a Sauk Rapids street and into a yard. The court complaint filed in Benton County accuses Gunderson of having a blood-alcohol level of 0.26 about 90 minutes after his arrest. Gunderson is accused of driving a vehicle off the road near Ninth Avenue and 18th Street North. It occurred about 2:45pm on February 17th. An officer who arrived at the scene found Gunderson spinning the wheels of the vehicle in an attempt to get it out of the yard. Garbage cans and a street sign appeared to have been damaged. The officer reported Gunderson told him he was “not that intoxicated” and that he asked the officer to take him home. Gunderson is scheduled to make his first court appearance April 9th.

--Several suspects have been detained for questioning and a man is recovering after being shot Friday morning at a north St. Cloud residence. The shooting happened at about 10:45am in the 400 block of 17th Avenue North. The victim sustained injuries that police said were not life-threatening. One of the people detained during the investigation was arrested on an outstanding warrant. No other arrests were made. Hours later a search warrant was executed at another residence where a search of the area was held that including St. Cloud Tech High School and South Junior High going into containment mode. There was no report of any suspect from the search was arrested.

--A Stearns County jury late Friday found a St. Cloud businessman guilty of operating an illegal gambling operation. The jury convicted Steve Ehlen of four gross misdemeanors and four misdemeanors that accused him of running a lottery and operating a gambling place. Ehlen is one of four owners of Triple Crown Sweepstakes. The jury deliberated for about four hours Friday before returning its verdict.

--There is only two weeks left in the annual March Food Drive and Sara Nelson Pallmeyer with Minnesota Foodshare says they’d like to raise enough money and food donations to provide about half of what the food shelves distribute over the course of the year. That equates to about 35-million pounds of food. Last year, there were three-million visits to the state’s food shelves. Locally there are food shelves in Morrison County located in Little Falls, Pierz and Motley.

--2012 was an active wildfire season in Minnesota, including the North Minnie Fire near Red Lake, a fire near Karlstad and another near Viking burning dozens of acres. This fire season is getting off to a late start due the recent snowfall but the head of the U.S. Forest Service doesn’t expect it to stay that way. Chief Tom Tidwell says climate change gets most of the blame with fire seasons being warmer, dryer and longer than they were just 10 years ago. Tidwell expects drought-like conditions to continue to dry out parts of Minnesota, resulting in a busy fire season- much like last year.

DEATH NOTICES
--Eugene Dombovy, age 70 of Pierz.
--Dolores Mae Kasper, age 81 of Nashwauk, Staples and Pierz.
--Mae Nagel, age 88 of Little Falls

SPORTS
HS BBB= Upsala defeated Barnum 76-56 Friday night to advance to the Boys Basketball State Tournament Thursday. Upsala was seeded #2 in the State Tournament and faces Battle Lake at 3pm at Williams Arena in Minneapolis. Hear the game live on Q92 WYRQ.
VIKINGS= The Vikings got busy late last week signing quarterback Matt Cassel and Wide Receiver Greg Jennings to deals. Jennings was an All-Pro with Green Bay- Cassel played for New England and KC.
COL BB= Gophers get NCAA nod face UCLA Friday night at 9pm.

Need a great lunch, stop into the West Side Bar in Little Falls today.

Friday- March 15th, 2013

NEWS
--The Crow Wing County Commissioners voted 4-1 this week to send a letter to area legislators in support of a House Bill to give county boards the ability to eliminate elected positions. The House Bill would give counties the right to change the auditor, treasurer, and recorder to appointed positions by the board. This would exclude County Commissioners and the Sheriff which would remain elected positions. Crow Wing County Administrator Tim Houle previously presented the proposal to the county commissioners to replace the elected positions of auditor-treasurer and recorder instead as appointed positions. By policy the board has to send the letter to the state legislature in order make the change and a Bill is still in the process of being worked through the State House. The County Board stated that 23 other counties have similar bills before the legislature to make the same kind of change.

--A homemade pipe bomb was found Monday in a foreclosed house in Brainerd. Officers were executing a search warrant when they found the device around 4:30pm. The device was crafted from a flashlight and explosive powder. A bomb technician was called in and defused the explosive. 47-year-old Scott Jackson of Brainerd was arrested at the scene and was on probation for a meth lab operation conviction in 2010. Jackson faces charges, which includes possession of an explosive device and control substances while on probation.

--Governor Mark Dayton unveiled his revised budget Thursday at the Capitol. It was a lot different from his original proposal as the sales tax extension to business services and high-priced clothing taxes were eliminated. Dayton says that means he won’t be able to lower the corporate income tax rate or give homeowners a property tax rebate. The Governor is sticking with a tobacco tax increase and his continued call to increase income taxes on the top two-percent of Minnesota earners. The budget is expected to pass due to the House and Senate of the state legislature both under DFL control.

--The Minnesota Supreme Court justices ruled in favor of the city of Brainerd regarding the College Drive lawsuit. The case surrounded Brainerd’s pursuit of a project to reconstruct a one-mile portion of College Drive into a four-lane road with roundabouts at intersections. Brainerd did not have a 4/5th majority vote. Central Lakes College would pay the special assessments for the project but some argued CLC was an instrument of the state and therefore could not petition for the project. Crow Wing County District Court, Minnesota Court of Appeals and ultimately the state Supreme Court all agreed that because the college was considered an owner it could petition for it.

--St. Cloud State University President Earl H. Potter III is asking a federal judge to dismiss a lawsuit from a former associate vice-president, Mahmoud Saffari, accusing the University of civil rights violations, discrimination, defamation and violations of the State Data Practices Act. The lawsuit was filed 16 months after Saffari was fired, which led to protests by the Faculty and Staff of Color Caucus. The University has not given a reason behind Saffari’s firing. St. Cloud State University and President Potter III had denied all the allegations in the lawsuit. Saffari in his lawsuit stated that SCSU repeatedly reported various acts of discrimination to the administration and did not share enrollment figures with the faculty.

--The Strut Your Stuff Fundraiser for the Boys and Girls Club in Little Falls is tonight starting at 6:30pm at the Falls Ballroom. Other events this weekend can be view at www.fallsradio.com then click on community calendar- including HGL Info April 5th and 6th.

--The Little Falls City Council meets Monday night 7:30pm at City Hall. Council has a work session at 6:30 and a closed meeting following their regular council meeting Monday night.

--Sunday is St. Patrick’s Day a day for all, not just those of Irish descent to enjoy. A reminder from Minnesota State Patrol that extra law enforcement will be out today through early Monday watching for impaired drivers who plan ahead if you plan on attended St. Patrick’s events this weekend. Also there are parades across the state this weekend Cross Lake has their large parade Saturday at 2pm with a number of events in the Brainerd Lakes areas. St. Paul has what is considered one of the largest St. Patrick’s Day parades Saturday at noon. Minneapolis holds their parade at 6:30pm Saturday. With St. Patrick’s Day on Sunday, parades are usually held on Saturday.

BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENT
--Charles and Eleanor Forster of Waite Park, boy on March 12th

DEATH NOTICES
--Mabel E. Bergstrazer, age 97 of Little Falls.
--Patricia Monson, age 67 of Hillman.

SPORTS
HS GBB= Bethlehem Academy proved too much for Upsala Thursday defeated the Cardinals 66-51 in the state quarter-finals. Kaelin Smieja of Upsala had 23 points including seven 3-pointers which is a state tournament record- Upsala finishes the year at 26-5.
HS BBB= Upsala vs. Barnum tonight at 7pm from Crosby. The winner tonight moves on to the state tournament next Thursday in Minneapolis. Hear the action live tonight on Q92 WYRQ.
COL BB= Illinois beat Gophers 51-49 in Big 10 Tournament with a last second shot- Gophers wait to see NCAA brackets on Sunday.
COL HK= Gophers vs. Bemidji State this weekend in best of 3 playoff series-Saturday’s game at 6:30 on AM960 KLTF.

OTHER NEWS
--The Upsala Cardinals Girls Basketball team is in the state tournament quarterfinals today at 11am against Bethlehem Academy. Hear the game live on 92.1FM WYRQ, Little Falls. Upsala would need to win today to get at least two more games at state, with semi-final play Friday at noon then either third place or championship games on Saturday in Minneapolis. Because of the state tournament there is No School today in Upsala and if they win there would be no school tomorrow. Good luck Cardinals!

--The largest and oldest factory property in the area officially has changed hands. AIM Development (USA), a division of Montreal-based American Iron & Metal, has closed on its purchase of about 250 acres of land from Verso Paper Corporation on both sides of the Mississippi River. The parties signed the deal Friday. It can sometimes take weeks for a transaction to work its way through the recording process. According to INH, most of the buildings that comprised the former paper mill on the east side of the river will be scrapped. A 25,000-square-foot office building and a 30,000-square-foot warehouse are expected to remain, and the property will continue to be bisected by the Burlington Northern Santa Fe railway. The disposition of the hydroelectric dam remains in question as AIM may choose to operate it or sell it. Property on the west side of the river totals more than 180 acres. It is undeveloped and includes a landfill for construction materials.

--Unemployment rates jumped earlier this year showing an increase in jobless rates for the first time since 2009 for January in many central Minnesota counties. Morrison County saw an increase from 6.5% in December to 10.8% in January. Benton 6.5 to 8.4%, Mille Lacs 9.5 to 11.6%, Stearns County 5.4 to 7%, Todd County 6.4 to 8.2% and St. Cloud as a city rose from 5.7% in December of last year to 7.3% in January of 2013.

--A 19-year-old Melrose woman was injured Tuesday afternoon on Stearns County Road 13. Around 4pm, Chantel Dingman slid on an icy patch of road and rolled her vehicle. Dingman was taken to Melrose Hospital and treated for injuries.

--The Morrison County Board of Commissioners honored a handful of county employees for their performance, customer service and their innovation and leadership through its Awards of Excellence Program at its regular County Board meeting on Tuesday. The 2013 winners are: Denise Vogl from Department of Motor Vehicles, Todd Kosovich in the County Attorney’s Office, Theresa Stout from Social Services and Linda Browning from the Recorder’s Office. Any current Morrison County employee or customer may nominate an individual or group for recognition. Award forms can be obtained at the Administration Department at the Government Center or on the County’s website. Forms for next years’ awards must be submitted by December 31st.

--Yesterday on KLTF Community Events- Marnita VanHoecke of the Pine Grove Zoo announced that the Zoo will be 100 years old this year. A large celebration is in the works for June 8th this year to commemorate the 100 years of the Zoo. More details will be released closer to that date. The Zoo will be opening for the 2013 spring season starting on April 15th. For details call 616-5595.

--The St. Cloud office of Mid-Minnesota Legal Aid received a $150,000 grant from Blue Cross-Blue Shield of Minnesota to help eligible low-income Minnesotans access health care in central Minnesota. The funds will be used to provide information about health care programs available for people who are currently uninsured or underinsured and to assist people with the application and enrollment process in Minnesota’s public healthcare. For more information on the Legal Aid’s healthcare outreach program visit www.mylegalaid.org or call 320-253-1021.

INTERNATIONAL NEWS
--With a puff of white smoke from the chimney of the Sistine Chapel and to the cheers of thousands of rain-soaked faithful, a gathering of Catholic cardinals picked a new pope from among their midst on Wednesday — choosing the cardinal from Argentina, the first South American to lead the church. The new pope, 76-year old Jorge Mario Bergoglio, will be called Francis, the 266th pontiff of the Roman Catholic Church. He is also the first non-European pope in more than 1,200 years to lead the church.

SPORTS
COL BB= Gophers vs. Illinois today at 11am in the opening round of the Big Ten Tournament in Chicago. Winner has Indiana on Friday.
GBB= The State Girls Basketball Tournament resumes today with Class A quarter-finals and Class 3A and 4A semi-final action. The tournament concludes with 4 championships on Saturday. Upsala faces Bethlehem Academy at 11:00am and you can hear it live beginning with pregame around 10:40am on 92.1 WYRQ

VENDORS SIGN UP FOR THE HOME GARDEN AND LEISURE SHOW APRIL 5TH AND 6TH IN LITTLE FALLS AT 632-2992.

Loss For Words Friday at West Side Bar- grab a great lunch today.

Wednesday- March 13th, 2013

NEWS
--The Pierz City Council met on Monday night. Two new part-time police officers were sworn in. Mike Taylor and Jason Loscheider were the two hired as officers. City administrator Anna Gruber informed the council the city was contacted by a TV program entitled “Communities of Distinction” hosted by Terry Bradshaw. Pierz was recommended to them as a community of distinction and if they are selected it would include a documentary film on the city of Pierz that would be featured on the TV program. Set-up and display liquor licenses were also approved at the Pierz ballroom and golf course.

--Township Elections were held Tuesday in 22 townships in Morrison County. Those include Agram, Belle Prairie, Bellevue, Buckman, Buh, Culdrum, Cushing, Darling, Elmdale, Granite, Green Prairie, Lakin, Leigh, Little Falls, Motley, Parker, Pike Creek, Platte, Ripley, Swan River, Swanville and Two Rivers. The other eight townships voted to hold their elections in November. Call in Election Results in today at 320-632-2992. A list of results received at Little Falls Radio will be on Thursday’s newsletter.

--The Spring season may not be coming anytime soon. Weather Eye Meteorologist Steve Wolenhaus, who is heard daily on Little Falls Radio says at least two more snow systems in the Pacific are on track to hit the state of Minnesota before April 1st. Wolenhaus also stated that over the next 3-4 weeks temperatures will be below 40 degrees which is the average for mid-March and precipitation is to be above average with snow forecasted Friday, Sunday and Monday over the next few days. Wolenhaus stated that last year we had a historic spring with temperatures near 80 degrees before the end of March but this year 50 degrees may not be possible until mid to late April if the current weather trends continue through the end of March.

--Governor Mark Dayton unveils his revised state budget today and he is dropping his proposed sales tax changes. The governor originally proposed to extend the sales tax to high-priced clothing and to business services but that received lukewarm support at best from Democrats and with the latest forecast showing a drop in the budget deficit, it lost even more momentum. The governor has stated that a top bracket income tax increase remains in his revised budget plan, plus a tobacco tax increase.

--Sequestration means cuts to the U.S. Army’s Tuition Assistance program that helps Veterans pay for school. Lieutenant Colonel Matthew Vatter stated he thought that Minnesota Veterans will not see their stipends cut because state programs will pick up the difference. Vatter says unlike some states, Minnesota has a strong network of financial support for Veterans in higher education is not so dependent on federal funds for assistance. An estimated 16-hundred National Guard Members use the program.

--Secretary of State Mark Ritchie spoke to the Minnesota Legislature Monday about election changes that he says will increase turnout and efficiency. The changes include increasing the ability of townships to use all mail balloting, changing the threshold of vote margins for publicly funded recounts from ½ of 1 percent to ¼ of 1 percent, increased use of early voting or no excuse absentee voting and allowing the Secretary of State more access to Minnesota court system and Department of Corrections date on felons that can be shared with election judges. The election law changes are in an Omnibus bill that is currently in committee and could be brought before the House and a Senate for a vote by the end of the week.

--Sauk Rapids Mayor Brad Gunderson is still being pressured to step down following a DWI arrest in February. At the recent Sauk Rapids City Council meeting Monday, fellow council members offered a resolution of disapproval of their leader and more public comments at the meeting were taken again asking Gunderson to resign. The State Patrol said that Gunderson was arrested and had a .26 blood alcohol level after crashing into trash cans on February 17th. The case has been forward to Benton County Attorney’s Office for formal charges. The City Council again informed the public that the council cannot force Gunderson to step down as he is an elected official.

--Jury selection has begun in the trial of one of the owners of a St. Cloud sweepstakes center accused of operating an illegal gambling operation. Steve Ehlen is one of four owners of Triple Crown Sweepstakes, a business in Centennial Plaza that was raided last summer by state gambling enforcement officials. Ehlen and the co-owners are accused of running a lottery and operating a gambling place. The owners contend that what they were offering at their store was a sweepstakes, not illegal gambling. Their business was shattered after state gambling officials raided it in August and took the computer terminals and other equipment from the store. The store has since reopened with new equipment and is selling workstation time for people who want to use a computer.

DEATH NOTICES
--Sister Rebecca ‘Blanche’ Schmidt, age 93 of the St. Scholastica Convent and formerly of Randall.
--Madeline Voigt, age 90 of Pierz.
--Albert Sura, age 89 of Little Falls.

SPORTS
HS BBB= Upsala defeated Browerville 68-61 last night to advance to Section finals Friday night in Crosby. One win away from the state tournament, hear the action Friday at 7pm live on Q92 WYRQ.
PEP= a pep fest sendoff for the Upsala Cardinals girls basketball will be held today at 1:25pm. The event is open to all to come and wish good luck to Upsala who plays in the State Tournament Thursday morning at 11am. You can hear the game live on Q92 WYRQ.
VIKINGS= Wide-Receiver Percy Harvin is heading to Seattle and media sources announced the trade is to be finalized by late Tuesday. The Vikings will receive three draft picks in exchange. Harvin missed much of 2013 from nagging injuries then reports surfaced of conflict with the team staff and his wanting a trade.

TODAY IN HISTORY
IN 1852= first depiction of Uncle Sam debuted in New York Lantern, it was for a butcher shop in New York- the caricature would later become the symbol of the U.S. Army saying I Want You.
IN 1930= Pluto was discovered by astronomers to become the newest plant- years later Pluto no longer recognized as one.

Loss for Words Friday, last cocaine energy party Saturday at WS Bar

Tuesday- March 12th, 2013

NEWS
--One man is dead and another was arrested after a single-vehicle crash Friday evening in Benton County. The Sheriff’s office stated that around 6:30pm they responded to a crash at the intersection of 35th Avenue and 25th Street Northeast in Minden Township, east of St. Cloud. 38-year-old, Jose Fabian of Sauk Rapids was traveling north on 35th Avenue Northeast when the vehicle ran off the road, went airborne and struck a tree. Fabian suffered injuries that were not life-threatening and was taken to St. Cloud Hospital for treatment. The vehicle’s passenger, 42-year-old David Eberle of St. Cloud, was pronounced dead at the scene. Eberle was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash. Initial investigation revealed that excessive speed and alcohol use may have been factors in the accident. Fabian has been charged with criminal vehicular homicide.

--Several Morrison County Robotics teams returned from competing in Duluth Friday and Saturday. Robotics teams from Little Falls, Pierz and Upsala were all in their first year of the competition building their robot and showing it off this past weekend. Little Falls placed 10th.

--Crow Wing County authorities are investigating mailbox thefts in Nisswa and Pequot Lakes last week. Federal officials Friday announced they have offered a $10,000 reward for assistance in the arrest of those involved in the mail thefts. Law Enforcement did state that a vehicle in question- a red Ford Explorer with a bug shield is being sought as a possible suspect in the case. Anyone with information or who notices suspicious behavior around mailboxes in either of those cities should call 877-876-2455 then option 2.

--The chance of spring flooding in central Minnesota remains highly possible due to the recent rains, and heavy snowpack. Central Minnesota has received over 46 inches of snow on average since January 1st of this year. That is over 3 inches more of moisture than this time last year. The National Weather Services says that the Mississippi River is estimated to be 15% higher in spots this spring causing flooding to be likely in areas around Fort Ripley and Aitkin. The Sauk River and Mississippi River in Benton and Stearns County is about 10% higher than last year and again could cause flooding.

--The Morrison County Commissioners will meet today an hour earlier at 8:00am due to two closed sessions along with their regular meeting. The closed sessions have to do with attorney client and a performance review. The Board will also hand out Excellence Awards and hear from many county agencies including the Sheriff’s office.

--Stearns County authorities responded to a one-vehicle crash with injuries Monday morning around 3am in Maine Prairie Township. 20-year-old Dillon Hansen of Watkins reportedly slid off County Road 149 and rolled several times. Hansen was ejected from the vehicle and transported to St. Cloud Hospital by family. Hansen’s condition is unknown. The crash remains under investigation by law enforcement.

--A Sauk Rapids man was arrested after police say he pushed a security guard and yelled profanities Saturday morning at St. Cloud Hospital. 20-year-old Brandon Anderson of Sauk Rapids was taken to the Stearns County jail on charges of disorderly conduct, providing false information to police, underage consumption and was in possession of a fraudulent driver’s license. No injuries were reported in the altercation at the hospital where Anderson was being treated Saturday when the altercation with staff and security occurred.

--The KLTF 25th Annual Home Garden and Leisure Show April 5th-6th in Little Falls- Vendors sign up now by calling 320-632-2992 today.

--The Little Falls Fire Department responded to a fire Saturday around 5:30pm. The fire occurred at an abandoned house located at 25556 185th Avenue. The residence was owned by Dean Schilling. 18-firefighters were on the scene for around 2 and ½ hours. There was extensive damage to the abandoned house. The cause is under investigation. The fire department also responded to a gas leak on Great River Road in Pike Creek Township on Thursday.

--Fire severely damaged a 24-unit storage building early Monday morning. The fire was reported just after midnight on Benton County Road 1. The fire was in a metal storage building and about 80 percent of the building and the units inside were destroyed. Many of the storage units had boats, cars and other large items in them. No injuries were sustained in the blaze. The cause is currently being investigated by the State Fire Marshal.

--The Brainerd Minnesota State Patrol District reported numerous accidents during the storm on Saturday. There were 17 property damage crashes, 6 injury crashes with one of those involving serious injuries in Aitkin County, and 61 vehicles off the road. With the recent heavy snows in the Brainerd Lakes area, the Crow Wing County Sheriff’s Office reminds residents to make sure their 911 address signs are not obstructed by snow.

--The March 15th deadline for Minnesota farmers to finalize a crop insurance plan is fast approaching. State Commerce Commissioner Mike Rothman says if dry conditions persist as expected, having proper crop insurance could be crucial. Agriculture Commissioner Dave Fredrickson says risk comes in many forms for farmers and crop insurance is an important tool for managing it. He encourages farmers to review their options carefully. The two cite the National Weather Service which says extreme drought remains across most of west-central and south-central Minnesota and severe drought continues across a large portion of southern Minnesota. Farmers still looking for an agent to finalize their crop insurance plan can consult the USDA or their local Farm Service Agency, in Little Falls 632-5477.

INTERNATIONAL NEWS
--Catholic Cardinals gather in Rome today to begin a secret election, or Conclave, to elect a new Pope. Most modern Conclaves over the last 50 years have been resolved in less than 4 days.

BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENT
--Joe and Amanda Hyatt of Pierz, a girl born March 8th.

SPORTS
HS BBB= Upsala vs. Browerville tonight in playoff action from Long Prairie- at 8pm on Q92 WYRQ. Royalton lost Monday to Onamia.
HS GBB= Upsala takes on Bethlehem Academy Thursday morning at 11am in Minneapolis- in state quarter-final play. Hear it live on Q92.

“Loss for Words” Friday, happy hour specials daily at West Side Bar

Monday- March 11th, 2013

NEWS
--The Minnesota woman sentenced to life in prison for killing her ex-husband in Sauk Rapids has pleaded no contest to charges she also killed her boyfriend in Wisconsin. 40-year-old Angelina O’Mara made the plea Thursday to the charge of first-degree intentional murder in the death of Michael Pies. O’Mara was sentenced in Wisconsin’s Ashland County Courthouse to life in prison with no possibility of parole. However, it is likely that O’Mara will not spend any time in the Wisconsin jail as she is already serving a life sentence from the death of James O’Mara in Benton County. O’Mara was ordered by the Wisconsin judge to pay restitution of $2,600 to the Pies family.

--Camp Ripley will be the site of a college fair open to everyone the April 5th. More than 45 colleges and universities will be on hand for the college fair at Camp Ripley again April 5th from 10am to 3pm.

--In the past week Little Falls Police arrested a 29-year-old man on Highway 10 for driving under the influence, driving after revocation and possession of control substances for medications that were not prescribed to him. The case was turned over the county attorney’s office. Morrison County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to theft reports of a snowmobile in Pierz, a vehicle in Randall, and a DVD player in Royalton. They also investigated a burglary report in Upsala of a residence that was broken into but no report if anything was stolen.

--The Minnesota State Patrol recognizes that St. Patrick’s Day is historically a dangerous drinking and driving party time. With it falling on a Sunday this year, the concern is a whole week end of partying. Troopers, deputies and officers from around Minnesota will be working Towards Zero Deaths Driving with extra enforcement on Minnesota roadways with state, county and city law enforcement agencies. Drivers are encouraged to support this project by planning ahead not to drink and drive and report impaired drivers.

--At the Royalton City Council meeting recently the ownership of the Royalton Fire Hall was a topic of discussion. Bellevue Township paid $4,058 annually for 12 years starting in 1996, and asked late last year to have their ownership in the hall considered. The Council is exploring whether Bellevue Township and the city could possibly be listed as co-owners and what steps would need to be taken to make that official. Neither the city nor the township has a contract regarding the arrangement. The topic was tabled pending more input being sought from former fire chiefs and township board members.

--Minnesota has confirmed four more flu deaths. The Minnesota Department of Health says the deaths were confirmed last week and that brings the number of flu related deaths in Minnesota to 169 since the state of the influenza season.

--Right now there are seven candidates that will vie for the four available titles as Morrison County Dairy Princesses. The candidates include: Carly Czech of Little Falls, daughter of Myron and Debbie Czech; Rochelle Herzog of Randall, parents are Fred and Alicia Herzog; Sara Roerick of Upsala, daughter of Roger and Diane Roerick; Tracy Herzog of Freeport, daughter of Allen and Diane Herzog; Marquie Marquette of Little Falls, her parents are Craig and Dorothy Pokornowski; Mindy Rinkel of Hillman, her parents are Ralph and Nancy Rinkel; Julie Johnson of Swanville, daughter of Neil and Debbie Johnson. The 60th annual Morrison County Dairy Princess Contest and Coronation has been set for March 23rd at the Falls Ballroom. The newly crowned Morrison County Dairy Princesses will go to a training seminar in St. Joseph May 17th-19th. There they will compete for the 12 spots to advance to the Princess Kay of the Milky Way competition in August.

--Former U.S. Senator Norm Coleman announced Thursday night that he has no plans to run for any political office in 2014. Coleman was named as a possible candidate for governor next year- but says no.

--Upsala Schools will have parent-teacher conferences today from 3:30pm to 7:30pm to make up from last week due to the weather. Also Upsala will have a make-up day of classes on March 28th.

--Five people were taken to hospitals Thursday after a two-vehicle collision in Mille Lacs County, according to Minnesota State Patrol. The crash happened at 10:30 a.m. on U.S. Highway 169 three miles north of Long Siding. 25-year-old Amanda McVay of Milaca, had stopped her car at a stop sign on County Road 12. When she tried to cross Highway 169, her car was broadsided by a northbound pickup driven by 71-year-old Roger Hartneck of Annandale. McVay and two passengers in her car — Isaiah Tadych, 4, of Milaca and Edward Tadych, 3, of Milaca — all had minor injuries. Darlene Hartneck, 63, of Annandale, who was in the pickup along with Hartneck were taken to North Memorial with serious injuries.

DEATH NOTICES
--Sharon Kirschbaum, age 66 of Pierz.
--Loretta G. Lattimer, age 80 of Little Falls
--Max Muehlbauer, age 85 of Royalton.
--Kim R. Liebel, age 60 of Little Falls.
--Albert Frey, age 89 of Randall.

SPORTS
HS GBB= Upsala is heading to the State Tournament in girls basketball after beating Pine River-Backus Friday 47-41. Upsala plays Bethlehem Academy Thursday at 11am at Williams Arena in Minneapolis. Hear State Tournament coverage live on Q92 WYRQ.
HS BBB= Upsala defeated Nevis Saturday 72-57 and will play Tuesday night on Q92. Royalton and Onamia postponed to tonight.
HS BHK= St. Thomas Academy 3-peated as state champions in Class A while Edina took the Class AA title on Saturday.

Lunch and Happy Hour specials daily at West Side Bar, Little Falls

Friday- March 8th, 2013

NEWS
--A Morrison County District Judge issued his judgment in requests from both the defense and prosecution in the Byron Smith murder case. Smith is the Little Falls man charged with two second degree counts of murder in the shooting deaths of Haile Kifer and Nick Brady, during an alleged burglary at his home in November. Prosecutors asked for a protective order restricting disclosure to the public of discovery made in the case and the defense asked the judge to issue a gag order against the prosecution. Judge Anderson ordered that data disclosed to the defense in the course of discovery, or by court order, be used only by the parties, their legal counsel, and employees of the legal counsel or any retained experts. The defense’s motion for a restrictive gag order against the prosecution was denied. Judge Anderson ruled in favor of the defense’s motion to require the prosecution to make available copies of cell phone records, evidence obtained during search warrants, all Bureau of Criminal Apprehension (BCA) forensic analyses pertaining to the case, photos taken during the search of Smith’s home, 911 calls made from Smith’s home, shotgun photographs, surveillance video, audio recordings of statements made by 11 individuals, and any juvenile court records concerning Brady and Kifer. In addition, Anderson ordered the prosecution provide documentation concerning the October 27th investigation in the burglary of Smith’s home. In January, the court granted the defense an extension of time before an omnibus hearing as forensic analyses will not be completed until mid-April. Smith’s omnibus hearing has been set for May 6th.

--As Wausau Paper plans to close its doors in April, it may leave the city of Brainerd with a $120,000 shortfall. The estimated $120,000 comes from the public utilities revenue and was budgeted in the city’s 2013 general fund. In the city’s agreement with Public Utilities to contribute a percentage of utility sales, Wausau Paper made up about $147,000 annually. City officials projected that means about $120,000 won’t be paid for the remainder of 2013 after the mill closes. That’s about 12 percent of the operating revenue in the general fund budget, outside of local government aid. City officials this week will draft a letter asking Wausau Paper to still pay the $120,000. Wausau Paper is not obligated to pay it. If they do not pay, city officials will be tasked to make budget adjustments.

--The Minnesota National Guard is busy preparing for federal sequestration cuts that will go into effect next month. Lieutenant Colonel Jon Lovald says there are over two-thousand full-time guard employees in the state and over half of them will be furloughed, meaning they’d work one less day per week. Lovald says the cuts will have an impact on the readiness of their force, members, equipment, facilities and training.

--Another sloppy storm is coming in tonight and last through late Saturday. This time it will be rain/sleet and snow mix with slushy, icy accumulations by Saturday night of 2-4 inches in central Minnesota.

--The 42nd Annual Book of Golden Deeds Award banquet is March 21st at the Falls Ballroom. This years recipient is Delores Hoffman who has been and continues to do church and community work and as a foster-grandmother still shows the love and compassion to children to this day. Friends, family and acquaintances of Delores are encouraged to sign up by March 14th for the banquet and if you desire to tell stories about Delores at the banquet. Please contact Dave McChesney at 320-632-6071. The cost is $17 and that includes the meal with doors opening at 6pm on the 21st.

--A fire at a north St. Cloud home Thursday morning caused about $100,000 in damage. Just after 4:30am firefighters were called to 1523 Sixth Street North. The fire destroyed the kitchen and left smoke and heat damage to other parts of the house. Edward Olson owns the house but at the time no one was living there due to the home being renovated. The cause is under investigation.

--Faye Arntson of rural Eagle Bend as injured Wednesday afternoon in a one vehicle accident in Todd County. Deputies state that Arntson side through an intersection and struck a T-sign then a large tree. Faye was taken to Long Prairie Hospital for treatment of injuries.

--The Family Reunification Act was discussed in a State House Committee Wednesday. County Attorneys say that the proposal would allow parents whose paternal rights have been terminated to have those rights restored under certain circumstances. Attorneys under this proposal would be allowed across the state to petition the court to restore the parental rights of some parents who have had their children placed in foster care, but only when it’s in the best interest of the child. Right now there are only 35 children in the state of Minnesota that would meet the strict criteria called for in the legislation among other things, it would only apply to children 15 or older, gives the right to petition only to the county attorney, and any decision not to file is final without appeal.

--Upsala Area schools will have a make-up day of classes on Thursday, March 28th to make up for the snow day this past Tuesday. Also Upsala schools have a kindergarten roundup of the class of 2026 today from 8:15am to 11am.

--The Holy Trinity School Carnival is Sunday 11am to 3pm in Pierz. The event has food, games, a quilt raffle, silent auction and a large raffle at 3pm. Proceeds go to help out Holy Trinity School in Pierz.

--It is time to Spring Ahead this weekend; remember to turn your clocks ahead one hour before bed Saturday night or at 2am Sunday morning as Daylight Saving Time returns.

A REMINDER THAT THE HOME GARDEN AND LEISURE SHOW IS APRIL 5TH AND APRIL 6TH AT THE EXCHANGE ARENA IN LITTLE FALLS. VENDORS CALL 632-2992 TO GET SIGNED UP.

SPORTS
HS GBB= Upsala vs. Pine River-Backus tonight 7pm on FM94 KFML where the winner moves on to the State Tournament next week.
HS BBB= Upsala and Royalton advanced in Section 5A playoffs Thursday- Upsala vs. Nevis Saturday 6pm on Q92. Pierz lost Thurs.
MLB= More Twins action tonight at 6pm then Saturday and Sunday at noon from Florida on Q92 WYRQ- Regular season starts April 1st.

“Switch” tonight, Redneck Radio Saturday at West Side Bar

Thursday- March 7th, 2013

NEWS
--Foley Mayor Gary Gruba and Police Chief Brant Standridge will have an open house from 10:00am-2:00pm on Saturday at the Foley City Hall. The aim is to discuss with community members the option of additional police coverage in the city, working towards the goal of 24-hour policing. Residents are encouraged to attend and provide feedback on the financial impact of additional police coverage as well as current operations of the department. For more information contact Gruba at 320-968-6669.

--The State Patrol reports that two people were injured Tuesday morning northwest of Motley on Highway 10 in Todd County. 31-year old Brenda Huff of Motley had slowed to make a turn onto 321st Avenue when her vehicle was struck from behind causing Huff to roll her vehicle into a ditch off of Highway 10. The other driver, 40-year old Cassie Dunrud of New York Mills told the state patrol that a semi had passed her and caused a large swath of snow to come up and temporarily blind Dunrud causing her to strike the Huff vehicle. Both drivers were taken to the Staples hospital, treated and released.

--The City of Baxter is already putting a leaf burning ban into effect before the spring season even begins. During a work session this week the council asked staff to draft the ban in dense residential areas. They will modify the city’s existing hunting map and come up with a defined area where leaf burning would and would not be allowed following where hunting is allowed and where it is prohibited. This would be a change for the city involving an issue that had been debated for many years. The city noted that currently large residential lots allow burning of leaves depending on the day and also split between odd and even streets. Baxter police informed the council the issue has been nights when the winds dies down and people burn leaves not entirely dry resulting in hovering smoke that looks like fog and causes visibility issues for motorists. Council discussed other options of the ban and the ordinance of the ban is expected to be written up for a vote by the next council meeting.

--Crow Wing County authorities were called to Mille Lacs Sunday where a 47-year-old woman was injured while kite-surfing. The woman struck her head on the ground and was taken to the Crosby hospital for treatment. Her name was not released.

--Despite a record setting year for Minnesota corn producers, the late season drought of 2012 may catch up with farmers early this spring. State Climatologists say the state faces some sort of drought situation right now still even with the heavier snowfall than in 2012. Because the ground is still frozen the water level of the snow is not soaking into the ground which means that this will not affect the soil and leave it hard and dry when the snow melts. Without spring rains the fields will stay dry and wildfire dangers will rise heavily. If the warmer weather comes too quickly, lakes and rivers will flood over with runoff with the ground too hard for the water to soak in.

--Starting in June, Minnesota enrolled in the federal SNAP food assistance program will be eligible for a five-dollar coupon to go toward their next purchase of fruits and vegetables. Human Services Commissioner Lucinda Jesson says the purpose of the pilot project is to encourage healthy eating. Jesson says participating stores will be announced later this spring. She says once the program launches, SNAP EBT card users will be responsible for asking the cashier for the five-dollar coupon. A record number of Minnesotans are enrolled in the SNAP program. Jesson says many more are eligible for benefits.

--At least 11 people were killed in the past 10 days on Minnesota roads, according to preliminary traffic crash reports submitted to the Minnesota Department of Public Safety Office of Traffic Safety. Among those killed since Sunday, February 24th, was the first pedestrian death of the year and two 16 year olds. Seven of the 11 killed were ages 27 and younger. The year’s first pedestrian death was a 20-year-old male, who was stuck on Saturday, March 2nd in Pine County. Officials remind motorists to drive attentively and to scan for pedestrians. Motorists must stop for those crossing at both marked and unmarked crosswalks. Pedestrians are reminded to make eye contact with drivers to show intent to cross, cross with caution, and continue to look for traffic during the cross. Distracted drivers are not likely looking for pedestrians. In response to the two teen deaths and another seriously injured, DPS last week called on the support of Minnesota high schools to reinforce safe driving decisions.

--The St. Francis Music Center of Little Falls, is proud to announce Tori Roe and Matthew Klos as the recipients of the 2013 Sister Justina Bieganek Music Scholarships. The scholarship was established in 2004 by family members, friends and fans of Sister Justina in honor of her 75th Anniversary as a Franciscan Sister. Sister Justina worked at St. Francis Music Center since its start in 1979. She passed away last summer at the age of 100, but her spirit of joy and peace still fill the halls of the Music Center. Tori Roe is in 11th grade at Long Prairie Grey Eagle High School and is the daughter of Charlotte and Alan Roe of Long Prairie. Matthew Klos is a senior at Little Falls Community High School and is the son of David and Ann Klos of Little Falls. For more information on the music center call 632-0637.

BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENTS
--Luke and Kimberly Peterson of Swanville, a boy born March 5th
--Richard Achman and Amber Okerman of Royalton, a boy on 3-5

DEATH NOTICES
--Lorraine Proctor, age 85 of Staples.
--Connie R. Cole, age 68 of Pillager.
--Linda Martin, age 59 of Royalton

SPORTS
HS BBB= Alexandria defeated Little Falls 66-51 last night in playoffs.
HS BBB= Pierz opens playoffs tonight at Long Prairie-Grey Eagle, game time is at 7pm on FM94 KFML
HS BBB= the unbeaten Upsala boys basketball team opens their playoffs tonight at home vs. Bertha-Hewitt at 7pm on Q92 WYRQ
HS GBB= The Upsala girls team is one win away from the state tournament after being Sebeka Tuesday night. Upsala will face Pine River Backus who beat Isle Tuesday for the Section 5A title Friday in Crosby. Game time is at 7pm on FM94 KFML.
MLB= listen to the Twins today at noon on Q92 WYRQ.

“Switch” Friday, Redneck Radio Saturday and lunch daily at WS Bar

Wednesday- March 6th, 2013

NEWS
--The Pierz Police Department is asking for the public’s help in identifying a man who is suspected of cashing stolen checks at an area bank. Police have determined that the unidentified man cashed two checks, stolen from a mailbox in Agram Township. The Department reminds business owners not to cash checks without seeing a valid identification and recording that information on the back of the check. Anyone who is suspicious of a person who is cashing a check, is asked to take note of the person’s physical appearance, what clothes they are wearing, what type of vehicle they are driving and what direction they go when leaving the establishment. Those who may have information on the man’s identity are asked to contact Pierz Police Chief Eric Hanneken at (320) 468-0299.

--Another blast of winter Monday and Tuesday with heaviest snow totals in central Minnesota. Little Falls Radio heard of 8-11 inches by noon on Tuesday and it was still snowing. The Minnesota State Patrol responded to 122 crashes statewide between 5 and 10:40am, 16 of them involving injuries. Another 114 vehicles either left the road or spun out. No fatalies have been reported in Minnesota, but across the border in Wisconsin one man was killed when the semi he was driving left the road and plunged into a river near Menomonie.

--Little Falls Police Chief Greg Schirmers spoke on KLTF Tuesday and stated that if you see suspicious activity, a vehicle out of place or people that just don’t look like they belong at the residence in question don’t hesitate to call police at 616-5570. Though we had a big winter blast this week- it is March and Schirmers stated that with spring coming lots more people will be out including many students and young children out to play and asked motorists to be mindful of the young children out playing as the spring season comes again.

--The Minnesota House has passed a bill establishing Minnesota's health insurance exchange, with its sponsor calling it the most substantial changes to state healthcare policy in 50 years. The House approved the bill 72 to 58 on Monday after a debate of more than five hours. The bill establishes a new state board to oversee an online marketplace where uninsured individuals and others can shop for and purchase private coverage. It's a centerpiece of the Obama administration's health care overhaul. The vote was nearly party-line, with just one Republican joining Democrats to pass it. The goal is to cover 1.3 million Minnesotans, including about 300,000 who don't currently have insurance. The House also approved an amendment to prohibit abortions from being covered in plans sold on the exchange.

--Minnesota's unemployment rate ticked up slightly in January but state officials say the state has more than 12,000 new jobs compared to a year earlier. The Department of Employment and Economic Development released its monthly tally of state economic indicators on Tuesday. The seasonally adjusted unemployment rate was two tenths of a percent higher than in December, but as usual outperformed the national unemployment rate of 7.9 percent. The 11 industrial sectors tracked by the agency all showed year-over-year growth rates for the first time since 2000. Commissioner Katie Clark Sieben says at the current rate of growth the state will soon have recovered all jobs lost in the recession. The biggest gains came in the trade, transportation and utilities sector. Other leaders were construction, and leisure and hospitality.

--News weather and sports 24/7 can be found at www.fallsradio.com.

--The Little Falls City Council met on Monday night. During the work session preceding the regular council meeting the Central Minnesota Violent Offender Task Force gave a presentation. An agreement was reached to once again use Lincoln School as a polling place on the west side of Little Falls for the 2014 elections. One item introduced was the city ordinance time for when children have to be out of bars. Presently it is 7:00pm but some would like that changed to 8:00pm. That will be brought up at the next meeting. The city also accepted the donation of a granite bench given by Lisa Maslowski in honor of Michael Lodermeier and Janelle Pekula placed at the Lindbergh Lions Recreational Complex ballfields on the west side of Little Falls.

--The Stearns County Sheriff’s Office announced that there will be a community notification meeting about a level 3 predatory offender moving to Eden Lake Township on March 13th. The meeting will be on March 11th at 6pm at Paynesville High School in room 115. Michael Shawn Klappenbach will be moving to a residence in that township after serving his sentence from engaging in sexual contact with a 15-year-old girl. Representatives from the Department of Corrections and the Stearns County Sheriff’s Office will be available to provide you with useful information on public safety.

--A reminder again that an open forum on the Army Compatible Use Buffer Program will be held in the theatre at the Training and Community Center on Camp Ripley March 14th at 7:00pm. The ACUB program is voluntary and is designed to compensate landowners for not encroaching on land within a 3 mile buffer of the Camp Ripley Military Base. If you need more information on the meeting on the 14th you can contact Jay Brezinka at 616-2720.

--The 39th annual Crosslake St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Celebration, hosted by the Brainerd Lakes Chamber will be Saturday, March 16th, in Crosslake. The parade begins at 2:00pm in Crosslake’s Town Square and winds its way to County Road 3 before heading north on Route 66. The event is billed as the state’s biggest and best St. Patrick’s Day parade outside of St. Paul. An estimated crowd of nearly 20,000 were in attendance at 2012’s parade.

BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENT
--Tyler and Cassandra Fruechte of Swanville a girl born March 4th.

SPORTS
HS BBB= The Little Falls at Alexandria boys basketball playoff game was moved to tonight because of the weather yesterday. Hear the action of the boys playoff game tonight at 7pm on Q92 WYRQ.
HS BHK= the State Boys Hockey Tournament begins today and wraps up on Saturday. Today is all Class A State Quarterfinals- including St. Cloud Apollo vs. St. Thomas Academy tonight at 6pm. The Class AA quarter-finals take place on Thursday in St. Paul.
MLB= Twins take on Puerto Rico today 11am on Q92 WYRQ.
NHL= Chicago beat the Wild last night 5-3.

“Switch” Friday, Redneck Radio Saturday at West Side Bar

Tuesday- March 5th, 2013

NEWS
--The Little Falls Exchange Club has announced Delores Hoffman has been chosen as the 42nd winner of the Book of Golden Deeds Award. Notable achievements by Delores include being a foster grandparent, senior "stretch" leader, catechism teacher, and "mother" to other seniors. She currently resides at the Highland Senior Living Apartments in Little Falls. Each year a community volunteer who serves the community quietly and without recognition is given this prestigious honor. The Exchange Club will present Delores the award on March 21st at the Little Falls Ballroom. Make reservations by March 14th by calling Dave McChesney at 632-6071.

--Crow Wing County authorities have identified the two men hurt in a snowmobile accident Sunday in an open field near the Brainerd airport. 47-year-old Joseph Novick of Burnsville and 27-year-old Richard Mills III of Minneapolis were injured when their snowmobiles collided. Both men were wearing helmets. Novick remains in critical conditions as of late Monday at North Memorial Medical Center in Robbinsdale. Mills was reported in fair condition Monday at the hospital in Brainerd.

--A winter storm warning remains in affect until tonight for central Minnesota. The Minnesota State Patrol is concerned about driving habits during these hazardous conditions. Sgt. Curt Mowers of the Minnesota State Patrol says, “During times of bad weather and road conditions, the speed limit means that you drive to the existing conditions. Many drivers are driving way too fast for the conditions, and many drivers follow too close. We all need to take personal responsibility for our own actions behind the wheel. The State Patrol is asking everyone to slow down, buckle up and drive sober, especially during conditions like these."

--The nuclear power plant in Monticello began a scheduled refueling outage on Saturday that will include finishing work to increase the plants’ output. During the outage, workers will upgrade equipment to increase the plant’s generating capacity to by 71 megawatts and improve its efficiency, according to Xcel Energy, which owns the plant. About 2,000 contractors will help plant staff complete maintenance and construction, including placing new fuel assemblies in the reactor. Refueling outages typically last four to six weeks, although this one is expected to last longer due to the added work.

--Federal investigators have released initial findings about the February 20th plane crash near Parkers Prairie that killed Adam Menze of Otter Tail. The National Transportation Safety Board says the plane crashed into a field and slid across a driveway before coming to rest in a wooded area. The NTSB report says Menze was in contact with his brother by cell phone just 15 minutes before his plane went down. Winds were light and the temperature was about eight degrees. Witnesses reported hearing a loud pop sound. The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

--A Coon Rapids man is jailed in Anoka County for allegedly videotaping kids in the Andover YMCA locker room. A 12-year old boy told his parents that he was changing clothes last week when he saw a man holding a watch over the area where he was getting dressed. Commander Paul Sommer says law enforcement and YMCA staff used surveillance video to identify the 53-year old suspect. A search of the suspect’s home turned up a wrist watch that records digital video and photos. Investigators also found files on his computer showing young boys undressing in YMCA locker rooms, plus other child pornography. Charges are expected later today.

--Brainerd police are investigating the death of an infant on 9th Street North in Brainerd Sunday. Around 10:30am police were called to the residence where the infant was unresponsive in a crib. The 4-month old was pronounced dead after an attempt to revive the baby. The names involved are not being released. An investigation continues but police believe there is no reason to think there was foul play.

--The 8th annual Breezy Point Polar Bear Plunge was held this past Saturday. 420 participants raised approximately $85,000 for Special Olympics at the event held at Breezy Point Resort near Pequot Lakes.

--Minnesota farmers who participated in USDA farm programs will be affected by the Sequester. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says a sharp cut in USDA’s conservation services budget will show an impact almost immediately. He says they are not filling job openings so there will be 400 vacancies and unstaffed offices. Vilsack says it’s uncertain what will happen to those who have already received farm program payments. Vilsack does say that crop insurance indemnities are shielded from the recent Sequester from the Federal Government.

BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENTS
--Gene and Carrie Kowalczyk of Lastrup, boy born March 1st
--Joey Heberlee and Christina Zilka of Pierz, boy born March 1st
--Christopher Okerman and Kayla Gilman of Little Falls, girl March 1st

DEATH NOTICES
--Vivian I. Kieley, age 92 of Big Lake, formerly of Little Falls
--Idella J. Bushey, age 79 of Long Prairie
--Sr. Mary Delourdes, age 90 of Little Falls.

SPORTS
HS BBB= Little Falls opens up the playoffs on the road at Alexandria in a Section 8AAA quarterfinal match-up against the Cardinals. The winner takes on the winner of Detroit Lakes and Fergus Falls on Saturday in Moorhead. Tipoff at 7pm live on 92.1FM WYRQ.
HS GBB= Upsala continues in girls playoffs tonight against Sebeka, the game is at Wadena at 7pm live on FM94 KFML.

TODAY IN HISTORY
IN 1750= First Shakespearean play presented in U.S. was Richard III
IN 1770= The Boston Massacre took place. 5 people were killed when British troops opened fire on a crowd of colonists.
IN 1946= Winston Churchill gave his famous Iron Curtain speech.
IN 1953= Soviet leader Joseph Stalin died at the age of 73.
IN 1963= County Singer Patsy Cline killed in a plane crash in Tenn.
IN 1980= Jay Silverheeld died at the age of 61. He is best remembered for the role of Tonto in the Lone Ranger.
IN 2004= A New York jury found home living guru Martha Stewart guilty on all four charges related to her imclone stock sale.

Need a break from the snow- stop in for lunch today at WS Bar.

Monday- March 4th, 2013

NEWS
--Morrison County Sheriff Michel Wetzel and Frank Scherf of the Minnesota Department of Public Safety informed the Morrison County Board this week that traffic fatalities in Minnesota have been reduced to their lowest levels since 1944. They discussed an initiative called “Toward Zero Deaths” and about the statewide impact the Toward Zero Deaths program has had on traffic deaths. Morrison County was recognized for its successful work on the Toward Zero Deaths program with the awarding of two light bars for its squad cars recently presented by Scherf. Sheriff Wetzel also thanked Deputy Doug Rekstad, who he said administers the grant on a daily basis.

--On Wednesday Investigators from the Central Minnesota Violent Offender Task Force made three arrests of individuals for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. Two arrests were in Morrison County, and the third arrest was in Wadena County. Agents recovered approximately ½ of an ounce of methamphetamine, one handgun, and other items related to the trafficking of meth. Bobbi Dawn Tyra, age 25 of St Cloud, and Tamra Jo Schmolke, age 22, of the Little Falls area were arrested in Morrison County and found to be in possession of methamphetamine. Andrew Bradley Stockman, age 29, of Sebeka, was arrested in Wadena County and found to be in possession of methamphetamine and a handgun. This matter has been forwarded to the Morrison County Attorney’s Office and Wadena County Attorney’s Office for prosecution.

--MN Veterans 4 Veterans Trust Fund approved a $15,000 grant to the Minnesota Military Museum on Camp Ripley. The grant will assist in improving veteran awareness and usage of the Minnesota Military Museum. Over a three year period, the museum will develop new exhibits and strategies to improve Veterans awareness and usage of the Minnesota Military Museums. The goals of the project are to increase veteran’s awareness of the museum and improve outreach efforts promoting it through VA medical Center.

--Morrison County Republicans elected party officers during their annual convention at the Little Falls Township. Mandy Heffron of Little Falls was elected chairperson and Patty Wilczek, Little Falls, was elected deputy chairperson. Other officers elected include Tina Wheeler, Little Falls – secretary; Perry Nouis, Little Falls – treasurer and Ken Toenies, Randall, and Bob Holz, Little Falls – vice chairmen. Mandy Heffron and Isaac Schultz were elected delegates to the Republican Party of Minnesota’s State Central Committee. Speakers at the convention included Sen. Paul Gazelka, R-Cass County, Rep. Ron Kresha, R-Little Falls and Rep. Jim Newberger, R-Becker.

--The Upsala School Board approved the purchase of new football uniforms for the combined Upsala Swanville Area (USA) football team on Wednesday. Swanville School Board Chair and USA football coach Jay Loven brought a proposal for new uniforms to the Upsala Board. The nine-year-old uniforms currently used are wearing out.

--The Todd County Sheriff’s Office is looking for information regarding a recent string of break-ins near Big Swan Lake, just north of Grey Eagle. At some point in the last two weeks, seven cabins and sheds along the east side of the lake were broken into, according to the Todd County Sheriff’s Office. At this point nothing has been reported stolen, but the incidents are still under investigation. Anyone with information is asked to call the sheriff’s office.

--The Little Falls City Council meets tonight at 7:30 at City Hall. There will be a closed meeting following tonight’s regular meeting.

--Little Falls Police responded last week to a burglary on Sixth Street Northwest, a vehicle that was stolen from a garage on Third Street Southeast, and a theft of a snow blower from a driveway on 8th Street Northwest. Anyone with information or notices suspicious activity should contact LF Police at 616-5570.

--Two men have been arrested in connection with a methamphetamine investigation that revealed an active meth lab this week in a St. Cloud apartment. The arrests happened Tuesday and Wednesday by investigators with the Central Minnesota Violent Offender Task Force. The investigation lasted five months and led to the arrests of Derald Norman Hausmann, 62, and Scott Edward Olson, 46. The arrests came after a minivan that Hausmann was driving was determined to belong to another man already in custody on meth-related charges. That led to the execution of two additional search warrants, one at 1214 Seventh Ave. N in St. Cloud. Investigators found items associated with the manufacture and use of meth, including 2 grams of meth. Olson was arrested at that residence. While executing that search warrant, investigators learned that another meth lab was in use at an apartment in east St. Cloud. That led to a search at 1215 East St. Germain St, where Hausmann and another man were. Investigators found more items associated with meth manufacturing. Hausmann was arrested. All face numerous charges in Benton County District Court.

--Upsala parent teacher conferences are 3:30 to 7:30 today for the Upsala area schools. Call 573-2175 for information.

BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENT
--Daniel and Josie Kimman of Pierz, boy on February 27th

DEATH NOTICES
--Elaine J. Boody, age 79 of Little Falls.
--Josephine Hoheisel, age 93 of Pierz.
--Jason Ross, age 40 of Little Falls.
--Daniel Yager, age 31 of Little Falls.
--Edmund Poser, age 98 of Pierz.
--Ruth Sophia Petrich, age 99 of Randall.

SPORTS
WRE= The State Wrestling Tournament wrapped up Saturday in St. Paul. Wrestlers from Little Falls, Pierz, Holdingford, Royalton-Upsala and Foley completed. Wrestlers that placed were for Foley, Tyler Funk 2nd, Tristan Manderfeld 4th, Keith Thell 5th, Tyler Midas 4th and Mitch Stuffert 6th. Trevor Scott of Holdingford 4th and Mitch Lange of Royalton-Upsala finished 4th at the State Tournament.
HS GBB= Upsala defeated Browerville Saturday to move on in section playoffs. Upsala will play Sebeka Tuesday at 7pm on FM94. Staples-Motley won Saturday while Royalton was eliminated.

“Switch” Friday, Redneck Radio performs Saturday at West Side Bar

Friday- March 1st, 2013

NEWS
--A Morrison County District Court Judge dismissed third degree murder charges against Christian Dahn. Dahn had been charged with aiding and abetting Tonya Ashby and Brandon Bedford in activities that resulted in the heroin overdose death of Miranda Gosiak on February 28th, 2012 in Little Falls. The case will continue on the charge of controlled substance crime in the third degree. “Bird” Mangun, the man who sold the heroin to Ashby and Bedford, is also charged with third degree murder. Assistant Morrison County Attorney Todd Kosovich said he is disappointed by the ruling, but will continue prosecuting the drug charge.

--Morrison County Sheriff Michel Wetzel reports that on February 19th investigators with his office, along with officers from the Mille Lacs Tribal Police Department and the Mille Lacs County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant at a residence in Mille Lacs County. Firearms, ammunition, and other items were recovered at the residence. These items were identified as being recently stolen from residences in Richardson Township of Morrison County. 23-year-old Quentin Garbow of Onamia was identified as the suspect in these burglaries and is being sought by law enforcement. An attempt to locate Garbow is currently underway. Garbow is 6’ tall and weighs approximately 250 pounds. Anyone with information about the whereabouts of Quentin Garbow is asked to contact the Morrison or Mille Lacs County Sheriff’s Office.

--A 44-year old Little Falls man charged with 3rd degree murder in connection with the death of a woman he confessed to providing methamphetamines to the night she died recently appeared for his hearing in Morrison County District Court. According to the Ramsey County Medical Examiner, Leslie Peterson died June 2nd in Little Falls Township of a methamphetamine overdose. The Morrison County Sherriff’s Office arrested Warren John Okerman on July 9th. A contested omnibus hearing has been set for May 8th for Okerman.

--The Little Falls Police is investigating a burglary on Monday. The burglary was reported at 11:45am Monday in the 300 block of Fourth Avenue. Anyone with information should call Little Falls Police.

--The 1st Little Falls Antique Sporting Collectibles and Fish Decoy Show will be Saturday from 9:00am to 3:30pm at the Little Falls Ballroom. Admission is $5 for those 17 and older and children 16 and younger are free for the family day event. Check out folk art, fishing decoys and so much more outdoors and sporting item to buy sell and trade at the this show. The proceeds go to the National Fish Decoy Association and the Minnesota Fishing Museum in Little Falls.

--The Cold Spring City Council announced Wednesday that they have retired the badge number of slain Cold Spring Police Officer Thomas Decker. Decker was killed in the line of duty last November. With the resolution passed by the council the badge number 6402 will no longer be used by the Cold Spring Police Department out of respect for the years of service to Officer Decker.

--The St. Cloud School Board Wednesday announced they will invite Willie Jett to become the school’s new superintendent. The decision was unanimous by vote Wednesday night. Jett did accept the position by phone shortly after the special meeting and now will be in contract negotiations with the board. Jett has been the Assistant Superintendent for the St. Paul Public School District.

--The Upsala Area Schools have Parent/Teacher Conferences scheduled from 3:30-7:30pm on Monday, March 4th.

--The Little Falls Area Chamber of Commerce has officially named Al Windsperger of Little Falls Radio the March Employee of the Month. Al has been the Sports Director for the past 23 years and a morning show host on WYRQ. Al states “I enjoy Little Falls, the town, the people and the sports. I love doing my job every week and am grateful for having the opportunity to talk with people for a living. The best part is that I get be with a person as inspiring as Jane.” Congratulations Al on receiving Employee of the Month!

--The Morrison County Child Care Provider of the Year Committee would appreciate it if you would announce the Provider of the Year for 2013. The 2013 Morrison County Child Care Provider of the Year is Jacqueline Burns of Little Falls and has been licensed since 2001. Jacqueline will be honored at the Morrison County Provider of the Year Banquet in May. All licensed providers will be invited to it.

--Otter Tail County authorities say they have a 19-year-old suspect in custody for the deaths of horses and mistreatment of animals on a farm near Dent. Six dead horses were found on the property last Sunday and 11 horses and three llamas were seized due to inhumane conditions. The property owners were not home when deputies started the investigation. Criminal charges are pending in the case.

--A five-thousand dollars reward is being offered for information leading to a conviction in a Rush City bank robbery. Chisago County authorities say an armed gunman robbed the Northwoods Bank of an undisclosed amount of cash on February 19th. Deputies say the suspect is a white male, around 5’7 in height and weighing around 220 pounds. The getaway vehicle is a black two-door compact passenger car. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Chisago County Sheriff’s Office.

SPORTS
WRE= The Pierz Pioneers went 0-2 at the State Tournament and Foley was 2-1 on the day. The Pioneers lost in the first round to Frazee 47-12 and then Pierz was defeated by Atwater Cosmos Grove City 41-25. Foley started the day beating Totino Grace 35-23, then Foley lost to Simley 42-23, and Foley finished the day by winning the 3rd Place match in Class AA beating New Prague 33-24. The Individuals take center state with Foley at 9am, Little Falls at 11am and Pierz, Royalton-Upsala and Holdingford wrestling at 1pm today in St. Paul. Hear live action today and also on Saturday from the Xcel Energy Center in St. Paul on Q92 WYRQ.
BHK= St. Cloud Apollo beat Little Falls 6-3 last night in the section finals, Apollo now advances to the state tournament next week.
GBB= Upsala, Royalton and Foley won Thursday and advance on in playoffs Saturday. Pierz and Holdingford lost Thursday night in playoff action while Little Falls had their season end on Tuesday. Upsala takes on Browerville Saturday at 6pm from Wadena, that game can be heard live on FM94 KFML.
TWINS= Catch the Twins Sunday at noon on Q92 WYRQ.